We Fixed It, You’re Welcome - Popular Business Podcast

7-Eleven has been working on a big comeback for a while. Their first big attempt at reinvention might surprise you: egg salad sandwiches. While quite popular in Japan, 7-Eleven’s big gamble on egg salad sandwiches throughout United States stores is head scratching. In this episode, our panel wonders what led to this decision, discusses the larger business challenges at play, and proposes our own fixes for what 7-Eleven should do next.

Along the way, we unpack convenience store culture, customer behavior, retail psychology, operational execution, and take a hard look at how brands can misfire when they try to import global trends without adapting them locally.

The team also debates: ● Why Japan’s 7-Eleven experience feels completely different than anywhere else ● Whether North American consumers trust convenience store “fresh food” ● Why the U.S. $5.50 sandwich may already be positioned incorrectly ● How pop-up experiences and cultural immersion could help revive the brand ● Why iced coffee might actually be a smarter gateway product than egg salad ● How brands can retrain customer behavior instead of chasing viral moments Plus, Chino gives a firsthand review after testing the North American version of the sandwich in Toronto and shares her unfiltered reaction to it.

Key Takeaways ● Convenience stores in Japan function as an everyday food ecosystem, not just gas station stops ● Freshness perception matters more than novelty ● Viral products alone don’t build long-term customer habits ● 7-Eleven may need a full retail experience redesign, not just a menu upgrade ● Limited-time cultural pop-ups could create stronger consumer engagement ● Coffee and customizable experiences may offer a lower-risk path to changing customer behavior

If you enjoyed the episode, leave a review and share it with another Fixaholic. And next time you walk into a 7-Eleven, ask yourself: are you there out of habit, convenience, or because the brand actually gave you a reason to come back?

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.
• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com • Follow us on: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends! Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We’re here to ask the kinds of questions everyone’s thinking, have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you’re welcome.All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

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What happens when a major airline simply runs out of money?

In this episode, USA Today’s consumer travel reporter Zach Wichter joins the conversation to break down the shocking collapse of Spirit Airlines and its impact on passengers, employees, competitors, and the future of budget air travel.

After years of financial instability, failed merger attempts, mounting debt, and rising fuel costs, Spirit Airlines officially ceased operations on May 2, 2026, leaving travelers stranded and thousands of employees without jobs. But while the shutdown felt sudden to customers, the warning signs had been visible for years.

Together, we unpack how the airline industry handles collapse, why ultra low cost carriers are becoming harder to sustain, and whether Spirit’s downfall signals a much bigger shift in the economics of air travel.

In This Episode, We Cover

• Why Spirit Airlines officially shut down operations

• How fuel prices accelerated the company’s collapse

• The real reason ultra low cost airlines struggle long term

• What happened to stranded passengers and canceled flights

• Why airline shutdowns often happen abruptly

• The WARN Act and employee notification responsibilities

• How airline creditors influence shutdown decisions

• Why Spirit’s collapse could lead to higher airfare industry-wide

• The hidden role Spirit played in keeping ticket prices low

• The rise of premium travel after the pandemic

• How other airlines are responding to Spirit’s disappearance

• What happens to loyalty points and travel rewards after an airline dies

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Can a financially devastated footwear brand reinvent itself overnight as an AI infrastructure company?

In this episode, noted investment strategist Todd M. Schoenberger joins the discussion to unpack one of the boldest corporate pivots in recent memory: Allbirds’ decision to reposition itself as an AI business after losing nearly all of its market value.

Is this the beginning of a revolutionary turnaround or a last-minute headline grab designed to buy time?

Together, our panel explores whether brand loyalty is enough to survive a category shift this extreme, what investors are really reacting to when companies announce “AI pivots,” and whether Allbirds might still have viable paths forward to pursue its original footwear business instead of such a drastic departure.

Are we entering an era where struggling companies can simply add “AI” to their story and reset investor expectations?

As discussed in the episode:

The company didn’t pivot to AI. They pivoted to a headline.

That distinction may define whether Allbirds’ reboot becomes a turnaround story or a cautionary case study.

Across industries, companies are racing to reposition themselves around artificial intelligence.

But investors, employees, and customers are increasingly asking:

• What counts as a real pivot?

• What signals credibility?

• And what separates strategy from survival tactics?

Allbirds provides a rare real-time example of what happens when brand identity, capital constraints, and market hype collide.

Todd M. Schoenberger is CEO of CrossCheck Media and Chief Investment Officer at CrossCheck Management. He is a veteran financial commentator whose analysis has appeared on:

• CNBC

• Fox News

• CNN

Todd specializes in interpreting market signals, investor behavior, and strategic corporate positioning during periods of economic transition.

Connect with Todd on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-m-schoenberger

Some standout insights from this episode:

✔ AI announcements can trigger short-term stock spikes without long-term strategy✔ GPU infrastructure businesses require massive capital investment to compete✔ Brand trust weakens when companies abandon their founding mission abruptly✔ Direct-to-consumer footwear strategy may have been a stronger recovery path✔ Meme-stock momentum helped amplify Allbirds’ temporary rally✔ Sustainable brand positioning could have supported a more credible pivot✔ Timing, culture shifts, and retail expansion decisions accelerated decline

The Allbirds story raises a broader question for founders and executives:

When reinvention becomes necessary, should companies evolve within their strengths or leap into entirely new categories?

Sometimes survival depends less on moving fast and more on moving credibly.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We’re here to ask the kinds of questions everyone’s thinking, have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you’re welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Key Question Driving the EpisodeWhy This Conversation Matters Right NowAbout the Guest: Todd M. SchoenbergerDiscussion HighlightsA Bigger Strategic Lesson

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Napster once reshaped the music industry by making free digital downloads mainstream. Now it’s attempting another reinvention, this time as an AI-powered music platform. But can a brand once synonymous with piracy successfully re-enter the industry it disrupted?

In this episode, our panel sits down with podcast host and music industry partner development expert Seth Schachner (ex Sony Music, Jive Records, Microsoft) to unpack Napster’s history, its current AI ambitions, and whether the company still has a meaningful role to play in today’s creator-driven music ecosystem.

Together, we explore what Napster got right the first time, what’s different now, and what it would take for the platform to succeed in an era dominated by streaming, TikTok discovery, and AI music tools.

What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow Napster changed music consumption foreverWhy the music industry revenue dropped dramatically after early file-sharing platforms emerged How platforms like Apple iTunes and Spotify built on Napster’s behavioral blueprint The real difference between early piracy-era innovation and today’s AI music ecosystem Why AI music tools face skepticism from artists and labels. Whether Napster’s brand still has strategic value. The strongest opportunity Napster has today: creator collaboration platforms

Why independent artist infrastructure may matter more than streaming competition. How TikTok-era discovery is reshaping music success cyclesWhat Napster would need to do to “fix” its comeback strategyIf Napster Wants to Win Again…

The panel suggests Napster should:Lean into collaborative music creation tools support independent artists instead of competing with major streaming platforms build discovery infrastructure for emerging creatorsavoid overextending into too many AI product categoriesfocus on repeat creator engagement instead of passive listening

About the GuestSeth Schachner is a veteran entertainment strategist and founder of Strat Americas. His career includes leadership roles at Sony Music and partnerships with companies like Microsoft and Live Nation Entertainment. He also hosts the podcast Breaking Down the Biz, where he explores the business behind entertainment and media.

Seth’s Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0S8P5a0rH76RD1DB3BKloD?si=7044f5767af94587

Connect with Seth:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethschachner/

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpodLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpodYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends! Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer -

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We’re here to ask the kinds of questions everyone’s thinking, have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you’re welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LEGO built one of the most iconic brands in history by standing for children, creativity, and open-ended play. But in recent years, a major shift has taken hold. The company is increasingly chasing adult fans with premium, expensive, highly detailed sets, licensed IP, and collector-focused experiences.

In this episode, the panel is joined by toy industry veteran Leo Battersby to examine whether LEGO’s pivot toward adults is a smart growth strategy or a dangerous drift away from the very thing that made the brand legendary.

The conversation explores the deep tension between imagination vs instruction, open-ended creativity vs rigid build-by-numbers kits, and long-term cultural pipeline vs short-term revenue growth. With declining birth rates, rising screen time, and changing childhood behavior, LEGO is navigating a radically different world than the one it helped shape.

The group debates whether LEGO is slowly turning from a system of play into a premium model-building brand and what that means for future generations of builders.

Key Topics & Takeaways

The hidden danger of optimizing only for adult money

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Southwest Airlines is financially strong. Record revenues. Stock price near multi-year highs. Yet longtime customers are walking away angry. In this episode, we unpack the growing tension between Wall Street performance and customer loyalty at Southwest Airlines. Host Aaron Wolpoff sits down with brand strategist Rene Huey-Lipton, founder of The Dame Collective and former strategy lead on Southwest during its golden years. The question at the center of the conversation: How can a brand be winning financially while simultaneously losing its best customers? From controversial assigned seating to unpopular baggage fees to the triggering “Boarding Royale” Super Bowl campaign, we analyze how strategic shifts have taken the most beloved airline identity in America off course for many consumers. What We Cover 1️⃣ The Core Problem: Financial Success vs Brand Equity Southwest reported record revenue, yet load factors are declining Loyal flyers publicly declaring they are leaving The emotional equity of “We’re all in this together” is eroding The danger of extracting more revenue per customer while shrinking the customer base Rene explains how this mirrors classic Wall Street optimization: maximize short-term revenue, risk long-term brand health. 2️⃣ The Boarding Royale Backfire Southwest’s Super Bowl ad mocked its former open seating model. Instead of feeling like a self-aware evolution, customers felt: Belittled Gaslit Reduced to the punchline Rene breaks down why making your most loyal customers the joke is a strategic miscalculation. 3️⃣ Hierarchy Changes Behavior Referencing research from Harvard Business School and the University of Toronto, Rene highlights how: Class distinctions increase conflict Introducing hierarchy shifts employee roles from hosts to referees Southwest’s once-democratic seating model helped create community When tiered seating and baggage fees entered the picture, the cultural dynamic shifted. 4️⃣ Internal Culture Risk Southwest’s frontline employees have historically been its greatest asset: Humor Warmth Human connection But layoffs, operational constraints, and policy changes are altering that culture. The episode explores whether internal friction could accelerate brand decline faster than customer dissatisfaction alone. 5️⃣ What Should Southwest Do? Rene proposes a bold alternative: A Dual-Brand Strategy Modeled after Qantas and Jetstar: Preserve Southwest as a high-trust, economy-focused domestic brand Launch a separate premium or long-haul sub-brand Protect the emotional equity instead of diluting it Other ideas discussed: Restore fee transparency Recommit to “Bags Fly Free” Monetize passenger engagement through paid brand research partnerships Re-empower employees as ambassadors rather than enforcers Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives. Rene Huey-Lipton https://www.linkedin.com/in/hueylipton/ • Website – www.wefixeditpod.com • Follow us on: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends! Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them. Disclaimer A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are too many people being promoted into leadership roles? As a result, are companies becoming too top heavy? If we’ve created a system that values managers over executers, is this a recipe for disaster?

In this episode, we’re joined by Ron Hetrick, Principal Economist at Lightcast and one of the most influential labor economists in the country. Together, we unpack one of the most important questions facing today’s labor market: whether modern organizations are overloaded with managers and what that means for productivity, hiring, layoffs, and career paths. Drawing on decades of labor market research and macro workforce data, Ron explains why middle managers are often the first cut during layoffs, how that decision can negatively impact companies, and why a contributor-based evaluation might be a better approach. This dynamic conversation digs into provocative questions we’re all asking, challenges assumptions, and poses some very real solutions about improving our collective thinking about the labor force.

In This Episode, We Cover

● Why organizations naturally accumulate management layers over time

● The hidden risk of promoting top performers into leadership roles

● How layoffs disproportionately affect middle managers

● The mismatch between workforce expectations and available leadership roles

● Why companies reward management more than execution

● The growing importance of Individual Contributor career paths

● How interest rates and capital costs influence layoffs

● The long term consequences of overhiring during economic spikes

● Why forecasting failures create workforce instability

● How companies can rethink compensation structures to retain expertise

● The role AI may play in reshaping management structures

● Why trades and technical careers are becoming more attractive again

Key Insight from Ron Hetrick

One of the biggest workforce challenges today is not simply too many managers. It is a system that rewards leadership titles more than execution excellence.

If organizations want stability, they must create career ladders where experts can grow inancially without being pushed into management roles if it creates misalignment.

As Ron explains during the episode:

The farther your role is from creating revenue or protecting margin, the harder it becomes to justify during restructuring.

About the Guest: Ron Hetrick

Ron Hetrick is a leading labor economist and Principal Economist at Lightcast. He previously worked at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and advises Fortune 100 companies, policymakers, and workforce strategists.

He is also the author of:

● Demographic Drought

● Who’s Going to Do the Work

● The Rising Storm (contributor)

● Fault Lines (co-author)

Ron is widely recognized for translating workforce data into practical strategic insight for organizations navigating talent shortages and economic change.

Connect with Ron on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronlhetrick/

Discussion Highlights

Some standout takeaways from this episode:

✔ Promotions are often used as retention tools rather than structural necessities

✔ Middle management roles expand fastest during economic growth cycles

✔ Overhiring during temporary demand spikes leads directly to layoffs later

✔ Organizations rarely forecast workforce demand accurately

✔ Execution roles are often undervalued compared to leadership titles

✔ Skilled experts need compensation parity with managers

✔ Career ladders must evolve beyond title based advancement

Our Panel

● Aaron Wolpoff – Host and Marketing panelist

● Melissa Eaton – Operations and C/X panelist

● Chino Nnadi – People, Talent and Culture panelist

● Ron Hetrick (Guest) - Labor economist and Principal Economist at Lightcast.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be onstrued as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking, have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Space exploration used to be reserved for governments and elite astronauts only. Today, commercial launches, private space stations, and civilian missions are raising questions about opening up space travel and making access more widely available.

In this episode, global space policy executive Christopher Hearsey joins the conversation to explore the future of commercial spaceflight, the role of private companies, and whether humanity is entering a new era where space truly becomes accessible to everyone.

From billionaire tourism headlines to satellite infrastructure that powers everyday life on Earth, this discussion separates myth from reality and explains what space tourism and space commercialization actually means for society.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why space is no longer just for astronauts and governments
• How private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are accelerating the push for space travel
• The legal reality behind the Outer Space Treaty and ownership in space
• The economics of space tourism and why costs are still high
• How satellites already power GPS, banking, communications, and security systems
• Whether governments or private companies should lead the next phase of exploration

About Christopher Hearsey

Christopher Hearsey is a global space executive and founder of OSA Consulting, specializing in commercial space policy and regulatory strategy.

He previously worked at the U.S. State Department and helped support implementation of the National Space Policy. He also co-founded the Space Court Foundation, which promotes global education around space law and governance.

Learn more:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hearsey/

Our Panel

• Aaron Wolpoff – Host and Marketing panelist
• Melissa Eaton – Operations and C/X panelist 
• Chino Nnadi – People, Talent and Culture panelist
• Christopher Hearsey - Guest and global space executive
• 
  

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking, have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Target is dropping prices on more than 3,000 items to win back shoppers. But can price cuts alone win back customer trust and brand loyalty?

In this episode, our panel analyzes Target’s plan to address declining foot traffic, shrinking sales, and boycotts. We explore whether these price discounts are a short term marketing tactic or part of a deeper brand reset, and whether we think they will work.

From customer sentiment to operations complexity and employee impact, this conversation breaks down what Target can do to hold onto relevance in a crowded retail landscape, and to win back customers who feel Target is no longer for them.

Key Takeaways

• Discounts increase traffic temporarily but do not rebuild loyalty alone
• Target risks losing differentiation if it competes purely on price
• Brand trust requires transparency and consistency
• Employees and customers both need clarity on the company’s direction
• A strong narrative must support any pricing strategy

Our Panel

• Aaron Wolpoff – Host and Marketing panelist
• Melissa Eaton – Operations and C/X panelist 
• Chino Nnadi – People, Talent and Culture panelist

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking, have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, our panel explores a troubling trend in today’s job market: companies that exist to exploit job seekers. The reality of today’s job market? Ongoing layoffs and exponentially more candidates than open jobs. As a result, many people are opening their wallets to paid recruiters, coaches, career accelerators, and “job connector platforms” that promise hidden opportunities for a steep monthly fee.

It’s all so confusing: which of these services provide legitimate help? Which ones are just middlemen that prey on the unemployed? How can job seekers steer clear of the ones motivated by greed that don’t provide any real value?

Throughout this timely conversation, our panel discusses how the modern job search landscape has changed, why so many questionable services have emerged, and how candidates can protect themselves. We also share practical advice on identifying ethical recruiters, avoiding scams, and navigating the job market with confidence and strategy.

The episode ultimately builds to an upsetting realization: instead of job seekers being treated as the customer, many systems now treat them as a product to be monetized. With this in mind, our panel explains how workers can start to shift the power dynamic by building authentic relationships, verifying credibility, and trusting their instincts when evaluating job search services.

👥 Get to know our panel:

Aaron Wolpoff – Host & Panelist / Marketing Background

Melissa Eaton – Panelist / Operations & CX Background

Chino Nnadi – Panelist / People, Culture & Corporate Recruitment Background, founder of Like Cappuccino recruitment agency

Key Takeaways

Most legitimate recruiters never charge candidates for job placement.

Many “job search services” profit from fear and uncertainty.

Always research the credibility of coaches, recruiters, or platforms.

Trust your instincts when evaluating job opportunities or programs.

Networking and direct connections remain the most effective path to new opportunities.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Southwest Airlines is financially strong. Record revenues. Stock price near multi-year highs.

Yet longtime customers are walking away angry.

In this episode, we unpack the growing tension between Wall Street performance and customer loyalty at Southwest Airlines. Host Aaron Wolpoff sits down with brand strategist Rene Huey-Lipton, founder of The Dame Collective and former strategy lead on Southwest during its golden years.

The question at the center of the conversation:

How can a brand be winning financially while simultaneously losing its best customers?

From controversial assigned seating to unpopular baggage fees to the triggering “Boarding Royale” Super Bowl campaign, we analyze how strategic shifts have taken the most beloved airline identity in America off course for many consumers.

What We Cover

1️⃣ The Core Problem: Financial Success vs Brand Equity

• Southwest reported record revenue, yet load factors are declining
• Loyal flyers publicly declaring they are leaving
• The emotional equity of “We’re all in this together” is eroding
• The danger of extracting more revenue per customer while shrinking the customer base

Rene explains how this mirrors classic Wall Street optimization: maximize short-term revenue, risk long-term brand health.

2️⃣ The Boarding Royale Backfire

Southwest’s Super Bowl ad mocked its former open seating model.

Instead of feeling like a self-aware evolution, customers felt:

• Belittled
• Gaslit
• Reduced to the punchline

Rene breaks down why making your most loyal customers the joke is a strategic miscalculation.

3️⃣ Hierarchy Changes Behavior

Referencing research from Harvard Business School and the University of Toronto, Rene highlights how:

• Class distinctions increase conflict
• Introducing hierarchy shifts employee roles from hosts to referees
• Southwest’s once-democratic seating model helped create community

When tiered seating and baggage fees entered the picture, the cultural dynamic shifted.

4️⃣ Internal Culture Risk

Southwest’s frontline employees have historically been its greatest asset:

• Humor
• Warmth
• Human connection

But layoffs, operational constraints, and policy changes are altering that culture.

The episode explores whether internal friction could accelerate brand decline faster than customer dissatisfaction alone.

5️⃣ What Should Southwest Do?

Rene proposes a bold alternative:

A Dual-Brand Strategy

Modeled after Qantas and Jetstar:

• Preserve Southwest as a high-trust, economy-focused domestic brand
• Launch a separate premium or long-haul sub-brand
• Protect the emotional equity instead of diluting it

Other ideas discussed:

• Restore fee transparency
• Recommit to “Bags Fly Free”
• Monetize passenger engagement through paid brand research partnerships
• Re-empower employees as ambassadors rather than enforcers

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Rene Huey-Lipton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hueylipton/

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For generations, a bite of a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup meant one thing:

Milk chocolate. Real peanut butter. That unmistakable taste. Now, many loyal fans say something is different.

In this episode, we sit down with Brad Reese, grandson of H. B. Reese and self-appointed “Protector of Reese’s Brand Integrity,” to unpack a controversy that has caught the world’s attention.

Brad and others are upset about the current quality of Reese’s products under Hershey’s control, pointing to a shift in taste and either proven or alleged ingredient swaps. 

Emotions are high - people love Reese’s. They want real answers.

This isn’t just about candy.

It’s about trust, heritage, and a beloved company at a cultural tension point with its best customers.

What Sparked the Controversy?

Brad published an open letter to Hershey’s on LinkedIn calling out what he and many consumers observed:

• Certain varieties no longer list milk chocolate
• Some now use “chocolate candy,” “chocolatey coating,” or compound coating
• Peanut butter replaced in some products with “peanut butter creme”
• Ingredient changes implemented quietly, without announcement

While The Hershey Company has publicly stated that core ingredients have not changed, consumers began comparing labels and conducting side-by-side taste tests online.

The consumer pushback and Hershey’s response quickly went viral, drawing attention from major media outlets and even commentary from MrBeast while promoting his own line of Feastibles.

A Powerful Quote from Brad

“They’re stooping for pennies and passing up dollars.”

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Brad Reese

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradreesecom/

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

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If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tipping used to be simple: good service meant leaving something extra. These days, tips seem like mandatory surcharges, and customers are fed up. In this episode, Aaron and Melissa unpack the growing cultural frustration around “tipflation” and why it’s becoming an increasing pressure point for all involved. We debate who really bears the cost in today’s hospitality economy and look at this from all sides.

Joining us is expert restaurant consultant Mark Moeller, founder of the consulting firm The Recipe of Success, who brings over four decades of experience in restaurant operations and turnaround.

Together with Mark, we examine rising labor costs, the psychology of paying, fee transparency, and how to make practices around tipping more sustainable and digestible.

Practical Takeaways

For Consumers:

● Consider tipping after service is complete

● Speak with management before leaving damaging reviews

● Recognize tipping is tied to systemic wage structures

For Operators:

● Prioritize price and fee transparency

● Use POS data to fairly allocate tip pools

● Invest in training to justify value perception

● Avoid arbitrary surcharges that erode trust

The “Fix” (At Least for Now)

The group proposes:

● Transparent pricing models

● Reduced reliance on hidden fees

● Introduce enticing customer rewards that reinforce tipping behavior

● Continual experimentation with patience and grace on all sides

● Industry-wide creativity and collaboration

There is no overnight solution. But thoughtful policy adjustments, communication, and empathy between operators, staff, and customers may reduce friction.

Guest Spotlight

Mark Moeller

Founder, The Recipe of Success National restaurant consulting firm specializing in operations, training, and financial analysis

Website: recipeofsuccess.com

Enjoyed the Episode?

Instead of tipping the hosts, leave a five-star review on your favorite podcast platform. And if you're listening from a restaurant or coffee shop, consider showing appreciation to the team serving you.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Mark Moeller

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therecipeofsuccess/

Mark's website: https://recipeofsuccess.com

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

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If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking, have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Research suggests that 30–50% of today’s work tasks could technically be automated. And yet most of us feel busier than ever.

So what’s going on?

In this episode, we sit down with author, AI strategist, and business coach Steve Ferman to unpack the “automation irony”: the more tools and systems we add, the less time we seem to get back. Instead of blaming the technology, we dig into the real blockers—governance gaps, cultural resistance, change management failures, rising expectations, and leadership blind spots that prevent automation from delivering the relief it promises.

This isn’t an anti-AI episode. It’s a pro-leadership one.

About Our Guest

Steve Ferman is a tech executive, AI strategist, and certified Scaling Up business coach with over 40 years of experience building, scaling, buying, and selling technology companies. Learn more: https://4pillarcoach.com

Key Topics & Takeaways

• Why automation isn’t a tech problem — it’s an operations problem
• AI sprawl and shadow AI inside organizations
• The danger of implementing tools without governance or guardrails
• Why efficiency gains often lead to raised quotas, not reduced workload
• The “walled garden trap” and siloed automation efforts
• How automation quietly shifts burden upstream and creates hidden burnout
• Why layoffs blamed on AI increase fear and stall adoption
• The cultural gap between automation promise and employee experience
• The need for executive alignment before tool selection
• Why adoption requires enablement, not just software licenses

The Core Insight

Automation is not failing.

Leadership strategy is.

Companies often start with the solution — buying the newest AI tool — instead of identifying the operational bottlenecks they actually need to solve. Without executive buy-in, guardrails, and employee engagement, automation simply becomes another layer of work.

And when time is saved?

Organizations often fill it immediately with more output expectations, reinforcing the productivity paradox instead of relieving it.

Strategic Fixes Proposed

1️⃣ Start with Operations, Not Software

AI should solve clearly defined operational friction, not chase trends. Diagnose before you deploy.

2️⃣ Build Governance Early

Create AI councils, guardrails, usage policies, and clear expectations. Avoid AI sprawl.

3️⃣ Ask Employees First

“What are two tasks you hate doing?”

Automate those first to build trust and momentum.

4️⃣ Protect Reclaimed Time

Hard-code reclaimed hours into the operating model.

Allocate portions to:

• Innovation
• Upskilling
• Strategic thinking
• Reduced workload

5️⃣ Redefine Productivity

More output is not always better output.

Innovation, morale, and long-term sustainability matter.

6️⃣ Treat AI Like a New Colleague

Onboard it. Train around it. Clarify when human judgment overrides automation.

7️⃣ Keep Humans in the Loop

AI lacks empathy, emotional intelligence, and true reasoning.

The human element remains essential.

Who This Episode Is For

• Executives implementing AI initiatives
• HR and People & Culture leaders
• Founders and startup operators
• Technology and operations leaders
• Anyone feeling busier despite automation

The Big Question This Episode Answers

Is automation actually freeing us, or are we just running faster on the same wheel?

Final Take

Automation can absolutely give us time back.

But only if leaders resist the temptation to immediately reinvest every reclaimed minute into higher output expectations.

The real opportunity isn’t just efficiency.

It’s reinvention.

If done right, automation shifts work from execution to strategy, from repetition to creativity, from burnout to innovation.

But that shift requires intentional leadership, cultural clarity, and guardrails.

Otherwise, we're stuck with the burden of knowing we'll never catch up, no matter how many time-saving tools we add.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Steve Ferman: https://www.linkedin.com/company/4-pillar-coach/ 

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This year, companies spent $8–10 million for a single 30-second Super Bowl commercial, before production, celebrity fees, and amplification even begin. It’s one of the biggest marketing bets any company can make, and one of the few remaining moments of true mass, real-time cultural attention.

In this episode, the panel tackles the real question behind the hype:

Do Super Bowl commercials actually work, or are brands gambling millions on a flashy coin flip?

To answer this question, we're joined by featured guests and ad agency experts Anaka Kobzev (main episode and included post-show) and Amelea Renshaw (post-show) who have both been instrumental in shaping Super Bowl campaigns, among other things:

- Anaka has led global communications for legendary agencies like McCann and TBWA and is Founder and Principal of Through Line Advisory, helping brands to elevate their visibility through strategic communications and content.

- Amelea is Head of Strategy at Lucky Generals NY, spearheading brand positioning, award-winning creative campaigns, and comms thinking for brands such as Universal (with a 2026 ad spot), Ally, Google, Peloton, Pinterest, and Girls Who Code.

Recorded in two parts, the episode opens with a pre-game breakdown, where the panel evaluates the economics, risks, and strategic rationale behind Super Bowl advertising. After the game, the conversation continues with a bonus after-show, analyzing what actually aired, which ads cut through, which ones missed, and what patterns emerged across categories like AI, finance, health, food and beverage.

With perspectives from brand strategy, communications leadership, and deep agency experience, the group goes beyond “Was it funny?” and instead evaluates ROI, readiness, cultural fit, and long-term brand impact.

Key Topics & Takeaways

Why Super Bowl ads now cost 2–3× more than a decade ago

The difference between awareness, engagement, and actual business impact

When Super Bowl ads amplify strength vs expose weakness

Why creative misalignment can erase millions in value

The danger of confusing celebrity recognition with brand recall

How layoffs, market timing, and internal morale affect ad perception

Why some brands win with one ad and others disappear entirely

The rise of AI, health, and fintech themes in this year’s game

How pre-game leaks and post-game amplification now matter as much as game night

Strategic Frameworks Discussed

Readiness Test: If your operations can’t handle the spike, don’t buy the spot

Lifecycle Fit: Super Bowl ads work best at inflection points, not desperation moments

Creative Discipline: Entertainment alone is not strategy

Before / During / After: The ad is the spark, not the fire

Internal Alignment: Employees must understand the “why,” not just see the spend

Cultural Context: Tone matters as much as message

Who This Episode Is For

CMOs and brand leaders

Marketing and communications executives

Agency strategists and creatives

Founders considering big-budget awareness plays

Anyone curious why some Super Bowl ads become legendary and others become memes

The Big Question This Episode Answers

Is a Super Bowl commercial a smart investment or a very expensive ego play?

Final Take

Super Bowl commercials can work, but only when the entire business is ready to support the moment. Without operational strength, creative clarity, and strategic intent, the biggest stage in advertising doesn’t save brands, it exposes them.

The real win isn’t airtime.

It’s alignment, execution, and what happens after the confetti settles.

Main Panel

Aaron Wolpoff

Melissa Eaton

Chino Nnadi

Anaka Kobzev (Special Guest)

Anaka's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anakakobzev/

Bonus After-Show Panel

(Post-game analysis only)

Aaron Wolpoff

Melissa Eaton

Anaka Kobzev (Special Guest)

Amelea Renshaw (Special Guest)

Amelea's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amelearenshaw/

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking, have an engaging conversation, and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pinterest was once the quiet corner of the internet. A place for inspiration, planning, and imagination. No shouting. No doom-scrolling. No constant pressure to buy. That version of Pinterest is now under threat.

In this episode, we unpack The Pinterest Paradox. Can a platform built on slow inspiration successfully pivot to fast commerce without breaking user trust? Pinterest is laying off staff, cutting costs, investing heavily in AI, and pushing aggressively into e-commerce. With TikTok Shop, Amazon, and Instagram all competing for attention and dollars, Pinterest is betting that inspiration should lead directly to purchase.

Joined by Leon Lin, former Head of Discovery Product at Pinterest and current CEO of 1stCollab, we go inside how Pinterest’s algorithms actually worked and why monetization is harder than it looks.

We explore:

Browsing vs buying and where Pinterest truly belongs

When monetization feels helpful vs exploitative

Why affiliate links and sponsored content can break authenticity

How timing and intent matter more than ad volume

Why small and local businesses are Pinterest’s biggest opportunity

Inspo Mode vs Shop Mode as a potential product fix

How Pinterest can evolve without losing its soul

This is not an anti-commerce conversation. Pinterest is a business. But the real question is whether platforms can monetize without alienating the very users who made them valuable in the first place.

If Pinterest gets this right, it doesn’t just become another shopping app.

It becomes the most trusted bridge between imagination and action.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LEGO built one of the most iconic brands in history by standing for children, creativity, and open-ended play. But in recent years, a major shift has taken hold. The company is increasingly chasing adult fans with premium, expensive, highly detailed sets, licensed IP, and collector-focused experiences.

In this episode, the panel is joined by toy industry veteran Leo Battersby to examine whether LEGO’s pivot toward adults is a smart growth strategy or a dangerous drift away from the very thing that made the brand legendary.

The conversation explores the deep tension between imagination vs instruction, open-ended creativity vs rigid build-by-numbers kits, and long-term cultural pipeline vs short-term revenue growth. With declining birth rates, rising screen time, and changing childhood behavior, LEGO is navigating a radically different world than the one it helped shape.

The group debates whether LEGO is slowly turning from a system of play into a premium model-building brand and what that means for future generations of builders.

Key Topics & Takeaways

• Why adult collectors now make up ~25–30% of the toy market
• How LEGO’s “Adults Welcome” strategy and 18+ sets changed the brand
• The shift from imaginative play to instruction-following construction
• Why modern LEGO sets leave less room for creative reinterpretation
• The impact of screens, media, and IP on how kids play today
• Declining birth rates and what that means for toy company pipelines
• The difference between “paint by numbers” and a blank canvas
• Why nostalgia is powerful but not a long-term growth strategy
• How LEGO risks losing the next generation of builders
• The hidden danger of optimizing only for adult money

The Strategic Tension

Is LEGO still teaching kids how to imagine… or mostly teaching them how to follow instructions?

The panel argues that LEGO is not wrong to pursue adults and licensed IP. The real risk is over-indexing on precision, perfection, and display pieces at the cost of the messy, experimental, imaginative play that originally made LEGO magical.

The Big Fix Proposed

A “LEGO for Life” ecosystem, including:

• A subscription-based building journey that grows with the child
• An “Anything Box” starter kit with no instructions, just imagination
• Age-and-stage based kits that evolve from free play → STEM → advanced builds
• A community layer where kids and families share creations and challenges
• A “Pass the Brick” system for reused bricks to improve accessibility
• Clear separation between:
• Kid-first creative play LEGO
• Adult premium collectible LEGO

The goal:

Use adult profits to subsidize kid-first innovation and rebuild the long-term pipeline of LEGO fans.

The Big Question This Episode Answers

Is LEGO building the future of imagination, or just really expensive shelf art?

Final Take

LEGO doesn’t have an adult problem.

It has a pipeline problem.

The brand must protect the emotional and creative experiences that make people become adult LEGO fans in the first place, or the nostalgia engine eventually runs dry.

Panel

• Aaron Wolpoff
• Melissa Eaton
• Chino Nnadi

Guest

• Leo Battersby Former Mattel executive and co-founder of Mattel Creations, the adult collectibles business that scaled from zero to $110M. Currently founder of Midnight Rally Club and VP of Brand Creative at Fluid Logic.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Season 3 kicks off with a timely and culture-shifting question: Is Dry January actually good for business, or is it a self-inflicted economic slowdown?

Every January, millions of people across the U.S. and the world voluntarily press pause on alcohol. What started as a small UK health initiative has become a global behavioral shift, with nearly 1 in 5 adults now participating and overall alcohol consumption at its lowest level in nearly 90 years.

But this is not just a personal wellness trend. It’s a market disruption.

In this episode, our panel explores how Dry January impacts bars, restaurants, beverage brands, corporate culture, and consumer behavior. We break down whether this movement is just a temporary reset that snaps back in February or a signal of a much deeper shift toward mindful consumption, wellness, and long-term habit change.

From inventory planning and staffing challenges to the rise of non-alcoholic beverages, sober-curious culture, and experience-driven hospitality, the conversation reframes Dry January as not just a month, but a strategic testing ground for the future of food, beverage, and social culture.

Key Topics & Takeaways

• Why alcohol consumption is at a 90-year low and what that signals
• Is Dry January a meaningful reset or just behavioral whiplash?
• The business impact of 20% of customers disappearing for a month
• How Gen Z and wellness culture are reshaping social drinking norms
• Why “mindful consumption” is becoming mainstream
• The rise of non-alcoholic, zero-proof, and better-for-you beverages
• How bars and restaurants should rethink menus, experiences, and inventory
• Using January as an R&D lab instead of a dead month
• Corporate culture, team bonding, and moving beyond “happy hour culture”
• The danger of over-indexing on one month instead of building evergreen options

Strategic Business Ideas Explored

• Treating Dry January as a season, not a stunt
• Designing non-alcoholic experiences that feel premium, not like an afterthought
• Using January to test new menus, pairings, formats, and partnerships
• Diversifying revenue beyond alcohol without alienating core customers
• Reframing internal culture toward wellness, inclusion, and balance
• Building experiences around activities, not just drinking
• Avoiding the January 1st / January 30th consumer behavior whiplash

Who This Episode Is For

• Consumer brand marketers and strategists
• Operators dealing with seasonality and demand swings
• HR and culture leaders rethinking workplace social norms
• Food & beverage brand leaders
• Bar, restaurant, and hospitality owners
• Anyone interested in how wellness trends reshape entire industries

The Big Question This Episode Answers

Is Dry January something businesses should fight, ignore, or design for?

Final Take

Dry January is not the problem.

Ignoring the long-term shift in consumer behavior is.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends!

Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of We Fixed It, You’re Welcome, the team welcomes back financial expert Lukas Sundahl to put real numbers behind our hypothetical business fixes.

What’s the actual value of “fixing” a struggling company?

Lukas analyzes three big names—Southwest Airlines, Party City, and Jaguar—and shows how our proposed strategies could have meant millions in revenue, survival, and long-term brand strength.

Expect insights on:

Why Southwest’s baggage fees could still work without killing loyalty?

How Party City could have survived with community-driven retail?

What Jaguar missed in its EV pivot and how to reclaim brand trust?

This episode blends strategy + financial modeling, proving that fixing companies isn’t just theory—it’s measurable impact.

Listen, learn, and maybe rethink how YOU approach business pivots.

We dive deep into the real numbers behind our “fixes.” With returning guest Lukas Sundahl (CFO, financial strategist, LinkedIn thought leader), we analyze three case studies:

• Southwest Airlines: Would baggage fees really alienate customers? Or could they generate $350M–$450M while keeping loyalty intact?
• Party City: How localized inventory and community tie-ins might have saved them from bankruptcy—potentially adding $43M–$130M in value.
• Jaguar: The pitfalls of abandoning brand heritage in the EV race—and how aligning EVs with Jaguar’s legacy could mean $35M–$179M in gains.

Chapters

0:00 – Welcome to We Fixed It, You’re Welcome

1:20 – Meet our guest: Lukas Sundahl

2:40 – How we quantify “fixes”

4:20 – Case Study 1: Southwest Airlines

8:00 – Case Study 2: Party City

14:40 – Case Study 3: Jaguar

18:20 – The power of the pivot

23:00 – Why grounding fixes in real companies works

25:45 – Closing thoughts & where to find Lukas

Key Themes:

The financial impact of strategic pivots

Brand loyalty vs revenue growth

The “power of the pivot” in corporate turnarounds

Why storytelling + numbers matter in fixing companies

Key Pull Quote

“The numbers—whether worst or best case—prove the power of the pivot. Even small strategic shifts could have meant hundreds of millions in value.” – Lukas Sundahl

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Links:

• Website - www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram: @wefixeditpod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube: @wefixeditpod

If you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends! Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaguar’s EV rebrand was meant to redefine the luxury car brand — but instead, it sparked massive backlash, confused loyal customers, and even led to their CEO stepping down. In this episode, we break down exactly what went wrong with Jaguar’s electric vehicle strategy, why their marketing campaign failed, and how they can fix their brand without losing their iconic heritage.

Discover the key lessons every business can learn from Jaguar’s rebranding mistake, the reality of competing in the EV market, and the blueprint to reconnect with loyal buyers while attracting a new generation.

📌 Topics Covered:

Jaguar EV rebrand failure explained

Why the marketing campaign missed the mark

The danger of abandoning brand heritage

How to merge tradition with EV innovation

Strategies to win back luxury car buyers

If you’re interested in brand strategy, luxury cars, electric vehicles, or marketing case studies, this breakdown is a must-watch.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome" the hosts tackle American Eagle's controversial ad campaign featuring Sydney Sweeney. Marketing expert Lola Bakare joins to dissect the brand's misstep, exploring the importance of inclusive marketing and authentic consumer engagement. The discussion delves into the risks of shock marketing, the power of Gen Z consumers, and the need for diverse voices in decision-making processes. The panel offers strategic advice for American Eagle to regain trust, emphasizing accountability, employee engagement, and aligning actions with stated values. This episode challenges conventional marketing approaches and provides insights on navigating brand crises in the age of cancel culture.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

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In this episode, our panelists discuss crowd-sourced fixes that were submitted to our show, an end-of-season tradition. We talk about various companies that are top of mind for our episode contributors, focusing on loyalty programs and customer experiences. We explore the implications of changes in loyalty programs like Carnival's, emphasizing the importance of communication and customer engagement. The conversation also touches on innovative ideas for Amazon's delivery services and Uber's potential loyalty tiers, highlighting the need for personalization and enhanced customer experiences. The episode wraps up with reflections on the season and gratitude towards listeners.

Takeaways

The holiday season is a time for reflection and engagement with listeners.

Crowd-sourced fixes provide valuable insights into customer expectations.

Effective communication is crucial when changing loyalty programs.

Phased approaches can ease customer transitions during program changes.

Personalization in loyalty programs can enhance customer satisfaction.

Delaying shipping for registries can address space and timing issues for customers.

Innovative delivery solutions can improve customer convenience.

Uber's loyalty program could benefit from tiered rewards and personalization.

Partnerships with local businesses can enhance service offerings.

The importance of accountability and corporate responsibility in customer relations.

Chapters

00:00 Holiday Traditions and Listener Engagement

00:59 Crowd-Sourced Fix: Carnival Rewards Program

14:10 Crowd-Sourced Fix: Amazon Baby Registries

23:09 Exploring Loyalty Programs and Customer Expectations

23:35 Rethinking Postal Services: Innovative Partnerships

31:12 Amazon's Delivery Ambitions: A New Era for Logistics

35:20 Uber Loyalty Programs: Enhancing Customer Experience

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Keep listening to find out how we fix companies and put them back better than we found them.

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

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A beloved American brand finds itself in boiling hot water after a senior executive at Campbell’s is secretly recorded making racist remarks, mocking customers, disparaging the company’s products, and boasting about substance use at work. The recording goes public, the executive is fired, and Campbell’s stock hits a 52-week low. But the real question is not whether the executive deserved to go, it’s what this incident reveals about leadership, culture, and accountability inside the organization.

In this episode, our panel is joined by brand growth advisor Javier Farfan (NFL, New Balance, PepsiCo, McDonald's, Anheuser Busch) to unpack what happens when private behavior becomes public, how quickly trust can erode, and why firing one executive is rarely enough to fix a systemic problem. The discussion explores the internal cultural damage, the external brand risk, and the opportunity Campbell’s now has to reset its values, reconnect with consumers, and rebuild trust from the inside out.

Rather than debating whether the scandal will blow over, the conversation focuses on what meaningful recovery actually looks like and what brands must do when values, leadership behavior, and public perception collide.

Key Topics & Takeaways

• Why this incident may be more than a single “bad apple”
• How lower-level employees can change the balance of power inside companies
• The internal ripple effects of executive misconduct on morale and quality
• Psychological safety, retaliation, and why employees stop speaking up
• Culture as a system, not a slogan on the wall
• The difference between cosmetic fixes and structural change
• Why silence and minimal PR responses no longer work
• How consumer trust, nostalgia, and brand legacy can be rebuilt
• Turning a crisis into a catalyst for reinvention

Strategic Fixes Explored

• Isolating the incident without denying systemic responsibility
• Holding executives to higher character and integrity standards
• Making leadership behavior measurable, not theoretical
• Reinforcing internal accountability and psychological safety
• Re-centering the brand around community, care, and accessibility
• Leveraging nostalgia and emotional connection without being performative
• Using crisis moments as opportunities for product and brand evolution

Who This Episode Is For

• Brand, marketing, and communications leaders
• Executives and people managers
• HR and culture leaders
• Crisis management and PR professionals
• Anyone interested in how power, culture, and trust intersect inside large organizations

Disclaimer

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

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Some movies and products flop so badly they become infamous. Others become instant classics. But then there are the ones in the middle. The ones with hype that launch and then disappear without a trace. No cultural impact. No lasting impression. Just a collective… “meh.”

This episode examines that dangerous middle ground we’re calling a culture shrug and why, for companies and creators, it can be worse than outright failure.

Aaron, Melissa, and Qadira explore why projects that check every box still vanish instantly, how companies misread cultural signals, and what it really takes to make something with staying power in an era where trends can shift on a dime.

What we cover

• What a “culture shrug” is and why it can be more painful than a flop

 • Why effort, budget, and talent don’t guarantee cultural relevance

 • How movies, brands, and products fail when they aim for everyone

 • What happens when creativity gets diluted by committees

 • Why companies often misunderstand what audiences actually want

 • The timing problem between culture speed and corporate speed

 • How nostalgia, remakes, and algorithms fail to ignite connection

 • The danger of creative teams being shielded from real cultural insight

 • Why safety ideas can be instantly forgettable

 • Why younger audiences don’t react the way companies assume

 • The power of niche enthusiasm and true believers

 • How internal culture determines whether bold ideas survive

THE FIX: How to Avoid the Culture Shrug

1. Start with “So what?”

 If you cannot answer it clearly, the idea is not ready.

2. Treat data as input, not instruction

 Algorithms reveal behavior, not soul, and never the “why now.”

3. Test, but don’t sand down the edges

 Over testing destroys personality and guts.

4. Put a trusted tastemaker in charge of final decisions

 Not a tyrant, not a committee — a clear, culturally aware leader.

5. Build emotional stickiness

 If people don’t feel it, they won’t remember it.

6. Re-evaluate cultural resonance throughout long development cycles

 Eighteen months is a lifetime in cultural terms.

7. Find and nurture your early believer community

 They amplify when the project finally launches.

8. Leave room for weirdness

 The unexpected idea might be the one culture remembers.

9. Conduct a pre mortem

 Write the “if this flopped, here’s why” memo before you build.

10. Add delight

 Great creative work has soul, not just structure.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

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Wendy’s was once the fresh, honest, slightly rebellious burger chain. Today it’s stuck between fast food giants on one side and premium burger rivals on the other. Prices match McDonald’s, but the brand isn’t perceived as a value leader. Quality is decent, but not elevated enough to compete with Five Guys or Shake Shack.

So what is Wendy’s now?

We sit down with Paul Tuscano, former Chief Digital Officer at KFC US, the man behind their massive digital reinvention. He shares insights from decades in QSR, hospitality, and customer experience to break down why Wendy’s is struggling and how to fix it.

What we cover

• Why Wendy’s lost its lane

• Whether Project Fresh will work

• The strengths and weaknesses of the Wendy’s menu

• How loyalty, kiosks, personalization, and AI can change QSR

• Why Wendy’s social media works, but the stores don’t reflect it

• Why legacy brands need clarity and simplicity

• How to make Dave Thomas relevant to Gen Z

• Why culture and franchise alignment matter more than new tech

• How Chick fil A wins with consistency, not complexity

• A step by step strategy to rebuild Wendy’s

This episode is a must watch for anyone interested in branding, food, marketing, digital transformation, or turning around legacy companies.

Guest: Paul Tuscano Former Chief Digital Officer, KFC US LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultuscano/

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This episode explores one of the biggest questions of our time: are robots replacing humans or helping us reach our full potential?

We sit with Dr. Aadeel Akhtar, the visionary CEO of Psyonic, whose bionic hand technology is restoring touch for amputees and powering next generation robotics at NASA, Amazon, Google, Mercedes, Meta, and more.

Topics include

• Are robots a threat or an opportunity

• Why most robot replacement headlines are exaggerated

• How bionic hands are restoring real human lives

• The business responsibility behind automation

• How companies can prepare their workforce

• Why kids accept humanoid robots faster than adults

• How robotics and AI create new careers

• Why the future is humans plus robots, not humans versus robots

This is a human centered, optimistic, grounded, and deeply personal discussion that reframes the future of work.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives. 

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Prices are rising, fees are multiplying, and transparency is disappearing. In this episode, we break down how Ticketmaster, rideshares, airlines, and even grocery stores use surge pricing, hidden fees, and algorithmic pricing to squeeze more out of consumers.

Fractional CFO Elaine Bogart joins us to explain the financial mechanics behind these tactics and whether personalized pricing is fair game or a violation of trust. We explore equity, transparency, surveillance pricing, and what it would take for companies to fix their relationship with the public.

In This Episode:

• The rise of ambiguous and personalized pricing across industries

• Why Ticketmaster’s monopoly keeps driving fan frustration

• How data-driven pricing risks crossing into digital discrimination

• The difference between surge pricing and surveillance pricing

• Why transparency and trust are now business essentials

• Fixing it: what “fair pricing” could look like for companies and customers alike

Key Takeaways

• Transparency is currency. When customers understand the “why,” they tolerate change better.

• Algorithmic pricing can deepen inequality if unchecked for bias or demographic profiling.

• Profit isn’t the enemy — opacity is.

• Trust is an asset that brands can’t afford to lose in the name of short-term gain.

Guest

Elaine Bogart – Fractional CFO | Strategic Finance & Growth Advisor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainebogart/

Links

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For many, Victoria’s Secret represented the epitome of femininity, confidence, and glamour. But as our culture shifted toward authenticity and inclusivity, the brand has struggled to evolve. In this episode, we break down how the most iconic lingerie empire dulled its shine, what their attempted rebrand is missing, and what it would take to rebuild trust with today’s consumer.

We explore the business, the culture, the fashion, and the future.

Is it too late for Victoria’s Secret to reinvent itself? Or is there still power in the fantasy?

We break down:

● How Victoria's Secret rose to cultural dominance

● Why the brand struggled as beauty standards shifted

● The competition from Skims, Spanx, and next-gen lingerie brands

● The challenges of rebranding when the market has already moved on

● What it really means for a company to be inclusive beyond marketing

● Why transformation needs to happen internally, not just on the runway

We also explore the path forward, proposing ways for the brand to honor its heritage while embracing a broader definition of femininity and confidence.

This episode is part culture, part business strategy, part brand therapy.

Key Takeaways

● Consumers today are not just buying products. They want to see themselves reflected and respected.

● Performative inclusion will not work. Authenticity requires representation in leadership, design, and decision-making.

● The fantasy does not need to disappear. It just has to widen to include a broader spectrum of customers.

● Brands that survive cultural shifts are the ones that act proactively, not reactively.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Links

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

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Wikipedia is undergoing a full-on crisis. As AI search tools like ChatGPT and Google intercept its traffic, while also borrowing its resources, the platform is facing a slow-motion collapse. Donations are shrinking, editors are burning out, and global politics are threatening its open, volunteer-led structure.

In this episode, Aaron, Melissa, and Qadira take on a big question: can Wikipedia survive in the AI era and during a time where facts are subjective? We explore how the site can evolve without losing its soul, what happens when truth itself becomes political, and why dissenting viewpoints actually make Wikipedia stronger.

What We Cover:

• Why AI is draining Wikipedia’s traffic and donations

• The tension between openness, neutrality, and regulation

• How political and cultural pressures are reshaping Wikipedia globally

• Why its volunteer model is breaking — and how AI could help fix it

• The role of diversity and localization across 300+ language editions

• The future of knowledge in an AI-first world

Key Fixes Discussed:

• Partnership, not competition: Work with AI companies like OpenAI and Google to license verified content and ensure attribution.

• Empower editors: Use AI assistance to reduce burnout and flag misinformation, while celebrating human contributors as the “Wikipedia Influencers.”

• Global equity: Invest in non-English versions, local training, and community

partnerships to balance global representation.

• Governance & transparency: Build stronger frameworks to manage bias,

misinformation, and evolving editorial standards.

• Education & early adoption: Reintroduce Wikipedia into classrooms and

universities to rebuild generational trust.

• Stay the public library of the internet: Redefine relevance not by traffic, but by quality and cultural importance.

Links

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Ben & Jerry’s, the iconic mission-driven ice cream brand, has hit a rocky patch. Co-founder Jerry Greenfield’s public exit after 47 years has raised big questions about what happens when a brand’s activist soul meets corporate strategy. Aaron, Melissa, and Qadira dig into how Unilever can protect Ben & Jerry’s social mission, rebuild trust with customers, and chart a bold path forward without its founding duo steering the ship.

From how to handle vocal founders on the outside to doubling down on values inside, this episode is a masterclass in managing founder-brand tension and preserving legacy in the corporate era.

🧠 What We Cover:

• The roots of Ben & Jerry’s mission-driven identity
• Why founder departures can shake a brand’s core
• How Unilever can re-anchor Ben & Jerry’s in its values
• Balancing global business strategy with social activism
• Governance, communications, and culture as tools for the fix
• Turning public tension into brand opportunity

🧰 Key Fixes Discussed:

• Double down on the mission: Recommit publicly to the values that made the brand unique.
• Operationalize the values: Embed activism into business strategy, not just storytelling.
• Create a new “guardian of the brand soul”: A face or team dedicated to carrying the mission forward.
• Leverage Unilever’s scale: Use Ben & Jerry’s as a flagship for cause-driven campaigns across all brands.
• Anticipate founder pushback: Build a strong comms plan to stay steady in public discourse.
• Codify the culture: Make the mission bigger than any one founder.

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In this big episode of “We Fixed It, You’re Welcome” our panel tackles the complex issue of the TikTok ban in the United States.

Joined by guests Braeden Sorbo (TikTok influencer, actor & content creator), Dylan Conroy (talent agent & podcaster), and guest finance panelist Sam Palazzolo, we explore the multifaceted challenges facing the platform.

The freewheeling discussion crosses into topics involving national security concerns, data privacy, content moderation, and the impact on creators and businesses. The panel debates potential solutions, including a proposed American ownership of the TikTok platform, algorithm transparency, and creator diversification across platforms.

While acknowledging the complex viewpoints of those involved in this conversation, we each offer our own perspectives about balancing free speech, user safety, and business interests in the evolving social media landscape. The episode highlights the far-reaching implications of TikTok’s fate for creators, users, and the broader tech industry.

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Links:

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram – instagram.com/wefixeditpod

LinkedIn – linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpod

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPod

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This week on We Fixed It, You’re Welcome, we’re diving deep into one of the most fascinating business stories in streaming: the Disney+ crisis. From explosive subscriber growth to public backlash and strategic pivots, Disney’s streaming platform has seen both magic and mayhem.

Joining us is Michael Cerdá, the former VP of Product at Disney Plus, who helped take the platform from concept to over 100 million subscribers. Michael gives us a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the service was built, why key decisions were made, and what Disney can do now to win back its audience.

We break down:

• The launch chaos that almost broke Disney Plus

• Why bundling Hulu and ESPN+ was a last-minute gamble

• The subscriber exodus and backlash over pricing

• How personalization and AI could reshape streaming

• And our fix for Disney Plus retention and acquisition strategies

Whether you’re a media strategist, streamer, or just love a good comeback story, thisone’s packed with insight.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Bundling works—even when it’s messy—because it locks in lifetime value.

• Personalization is the next battlefield in streaming retention.

• Disney’s loyalty ecosystem is underleveraged but powerful.

• AI could usher in a new era of storytelling, putting the viewer at the center.

Guest Plug:

Michael Cerdá’s book Build Something is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It dives

deeper into Disney Plus’s launch and other major product stories.

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Links:

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

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YouTube – / @wefixeditpod

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In this episode of We Fixed It, You’re Welcome, the panel dives into the surprising global phenomenon of Labubu—the bug-eyed, fang-toothed collectible from Pop Mart that has taken the toy and collectible world by storm.

Our guest, Manuel Torres Port, brings decades of experience from Mattel, Nickelodeon,NBC Universal, and more, to unpack what makes Labubu not just a collectible but a cultural force. The panel dissects how scarcity, community, surprise, and user-generated content fuel the brand’s viral success—and where the risks lie.

Together, Aaron, Melissa, Qadira, and Manuel explore:

• The psychology of scarcity and surprise

• The art of building community and identity around a product

• Lessons learned from Beanie Babies, Pokémon, and LEGO

• Corporate responsibility in marketing to kids

• How brands can create momentum without flooding the market

The episode culminates in a surprise – a live Labubu unboxing, giving everyone a firsthand experience of the dopamine hit that’s driving billions in sales. Whether you’re a marketer, brand strategist, or just fascinated by how fanbases are made, this episode breaks down the business strategies unboxed behind Labubu’s meteoric rise.

Expect insights on:

• How scarcity and surprise fuel billion-dollar collectible brands

• Why Pop Mart’s experiential retail model is changing the game

• What other businesses can learn from Labubu, LEGO, and Beanie Babies

• The fine line between hype, community, and corporate responsibility

• Strategies to keep momentum without bursting the bubble

Key Pull Quote

"Don’t just copy the blind box model, make the reveal your own, give fans a world to live in, and a stage for your product to show."– Manuel Torres Port

Links

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Links:

• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com

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In this special episode of We Fixed It, You’re Welcome, the team welcomes back financial expert Lukas Sundahl to put real numbers behind our hypothetical business fixes.

What’s the actual value of “fixing” a struggling company?

Lukas analyzes three big names—Southwest Airlines, Party City, and Jaguar—and shows how our proposed strategies could have meant millions in revenue, survival, and long-term brand strength.

Expect insights on:

Why Southwest’s baggage fees could still work without killing loyalty?

How Party City could have survived with community-driven retail?

What Jaguar missed in its EV pivot and how to reclaim brand trust?

This episode blends strategy + financial modeling, proving that fixing companies isn’t just theory—it’s measurable impact.

Listen, learn, and maybe rethink how YOU approach business pivots.

We dive deep into the real numbers behind our “fixes.” With returning guest Lukas Sundahl (CFO, financial strategist, LinkedIn thought leader), we analyze three case studies:

• Southwest Airlines: Would baggage fees really alienate customers? Or could they generate $350M–$450M while keeping loyalty intact?
• Party City: How localized inventory and community tie-ins might have saved them from bankruptcy—potentially adding $43M–$130M in value.
• Jaguar: The pitfalls of abandoning brand heritage in the EV race—and how aligning EVs with Jaguar’s legacy could mean $35M–$179M in gains.

Chapters

0:00 – Welcome to We Fixed It, You’re Welcome

1:20 – Meet our guest: Lukas Sundahl

2:40 – How we quantify “fixes”

4:20 – Case Study 1: Southwest Airlines

8:00 – Case Study 2: Party City

14:40 – Case Study 3: Jaguar

18:20 – The power of the pivot

23:00 – Why grounding fixes in real companies works

25:45 – Closing thoughts & where to find Lukas

Key Themes:

The financial impact of strategic pivots

Brand loyalty vs revenue growth

The “power of the pivot” in corporate turnarounds

Why storytelling + numbers matter in fixing companies

Key Pull Quote

“The numbers—whether worst or best case—prove the power of the pivot. Even small strategic shifts could have meant hundreds of millions in value.” – Lukas Sundahl

Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Links:

• Website - www.wefixeditpod.com

• Follow us on:

Instagram: @wefixeditpod

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Description

In this episode of We Fixed It, You’re Welcome, the team dives deep into the phenomenon of meme stocks like GameStop, AMC, Hertz, and Bed Bath & Beyond. What started as internet-fueled rebellions against Wall Street turned into massive financial chaos — with instant millionaires, bankrupt companies, and confused everyday investors.

Guest: Matt Anthes – Digital strategist, social impact advocate, founder of Advocators.ai, mentor with Techstars and Stanford’s AI for Good, and builder of HooliCon.com.

Together with our guest, the panel explores:

✅ How online communities (Reddit, YouTube, Twitter) fueled the frenzy

✅ Why meme stocks mirror influencer marketing & viral movements

✅ The risks for small investors caught in FOMO

✅ What companies like GameStop & AMC should do when their stock surges artificially

✅ Corporate responsibility, employee impact, and investor psychology

✅ How investors & companies can harness meme stock energy for good

From GameStop’s wild ride to AMC’s billion-dollar lifeline, this episode unpacks what happens when culture collides with capital.

👉 Subscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.

Links:

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In this episode, our panelists discuss the strategic rebranding of Beyond Meat, which has now transitioned to simply "Beyond." The company, once a rising star in plant-based meats, now faces challenges due to mounting losses, oversaturation in the market, and shifting consumer preferences. They explore Beyond's new mission to focus on cleaner, simpler ingredients and whether expansion into other categories is a good idea. The panelists also dive into the challenges of rebuilding trust, addressing consumer concerns, and how companies can distinguish themselves from competitors.

Key Topics Discussed:

•Beyond Meat's Rebrand to Beyond:

The company drops "Meat" from its name to reflect a broader focus on plant-based protein options, moving away from being just a meat alternative.

•The Evolution of the Plant-Based Market:

Discussion on how the plant-based meat market has become oversaturated with competitors like Impossible Foods and the influx of other plant-based brands in grocery stores.

•Beyond’s Strategic Pivot:

Beyond's decision to simplify its ingredients, focusing on transparency and health-conscious options. Their new product, Beyond Ground, made with simple ingredients like fava beans and avocado, aims to address concerns over ultra-processed foods.

•Expanding Beyond Plant-Based Meat:

Moving away from just replacing meat, Beyond is now positioning itself as a provider of healthier and more sustainable food choices, appealing to a wider range of consumers, including flexitarians and health-conscious individuals.

•Mission vs. Market Reality:

The panelists discuss how Beyond’s mission-driven approach, focused on environmental sustainability, may conflict with consumer demands for taste, price, and availability. The episode explores how the company must balance its mission with product execution to succeed in the competitive market.

•Partnerships and Global Expansion:

Beyond's struggle with previous high-profile partnerships, such as McDonald's and Starbucks, and the potential for future collaborations with health-conscious brands and meal kit providers. They also touch on the importance of understanding cultural nuances when expanding globally.

•Challenges in the Plant-Based Category:

The panelists discuss the "Frozen Yogurt Store Effect" and how Beyond's initial success created a market for competitors, leading to increased market saturation and consumer confusion.

•Future Strategy for Beyond:

The panelists suggest a focused, simplified approach to product offerings, building strong partnerships with like-minded companies, and focusing on their mission to create sustainable, plant-based protein options.

Key Takeaways:

•Simplicity and Transparency: Consumers are increasingly looking for simpler, cleaner ingredients in their food. Beyond's pivot to cleaner products with fewer ingredients could help rebuild trust and differentiate the brand.

•Targeting a Broader Audience: Beyond's new focus on providing plant-based options for everyone, not just vegans and vegetarians, opens up new growth opportunities.

•Strategic Partnerships: Beyond must choose its partners wisely to ensure they align with its mission and values. Collaborations with health-conscious brands or meal kit services could help reintroduce Beyond to the consumer base.

Closing Thoughts:

Aaron, Qadira, and Melissa highlight the importance of staying true to a company's mission while adapting to market changes. They believe that Beyond has the potential to bounce back, but it will need to focus on rebuilding trust, simplifying its offerings, and aligning its partnerships with its core values.

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In this thought-provoking episode of We Fixed It, You’re Welcome, we explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and education with Dr. Marc Wolpoff, Professor of Psychology at Riverside Community College. With AI tools like ChatGPT becoming common in classrooms, we dive deep into the potential benefits and challenges these tools present for students and educators alike.

Dr. Marc shares his insights into how AI is being used by students—from homework help to exam assistance—and the growing concerns around its impact on critical thinking, creativity, and the learning process. We discuss how AI may be inadvertently eroding students’ ability to think for themselves and the importance of teaching them how to use AI responsibly.

We also talk about the ethical implications of AI in education, including how to balance using AI as a helpful tool without compromising the integrity of learning.

Key Highlights:

• The rise of AI in classrooms and its impact on students

• AI "creep" and cognitive offloading in education

• Balancing AI usage with critical thinking and problem-solving skills

• The honor code dilemma in schools and how AI complicates academic integrity

• Dr. Marc Wolpoff’s approach to teaching students to think independently while using AI

• How AI might change the future of education and workforce readiness

Join us as we explore the future of learning and the role AI should play in the classroom!

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction to the Episode and Dr. Marc Wolpoff

1:00 – Dr. Marc Wolpoff’s Background in Psychology and Education

2:30 – AI Use in Classrooms: Students Turning to AI for Help

4:00 – AI "Creep" and Cognitive Offloading: How Students Use AI

6:00 – The Impact of AI on Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

8:00 – Honor Codes and AI: Navigating the Ethical Dilemma

10:00 – AI as a Tool for Good or a Shortcut for Lazy Thinking?

12:00 – The Diversity of AI Use Across Different Subjects

14:00 – How AI is Impacting Creativity and Higher-Level Thinking

16:00 – AI Literacy: Educating Students on When and How to Use AI

18:00 – The Role of Corporations in Shaping AI Literacy for Students

20:00 – The Future of Education: AI in Academia and the Workforce

22:00 – What We Need to Teach Students About AI and Accountability

24:00 – The Balance Between Technology and Human Judgment

26:00 – Closing Thoughts on AI’s Role in the Future of Education

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🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes on the future of education and AI!

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In this episode, the team dives into the cultural phenomenon of Taylor Swift's latest album release and how brands are jumping on the orange wave. They discuss the concept of "cultural currency" and how companies are navigating the challenge of joining in on viral trends. From the challenges of brand authenticity to the importance of a rapid response team, the conversation explores how brands can make smart, timely decisions that resonate with their audience while avoiding the pitfalls of inauthenticity.

Key Takeaways:

*Cultural Currency: In today’s fast-moving market, brands need to build cultural currency by staying relevant in the cultural conversation. Participating in viral moments can connect brands with their audiences in a more authentic way.

*The Double-Edged Sword: While it’s essential for brands to join viral moments, there is a risk of appearing inauthentic if they don’t align with the moment properly. Brands must ask themselves: "Does this moment align with our values?"

*Playbook for Brand Participation: Having a pre-established playbook for trend participation allows brands to act quickly while maintaining authenticity. This includes a rapid response team and guidelines for what is on-brand.

*Timeliness is Key: Viral moments are fleeting, and brands need to respond fast. Delayed reactions can render a brand irrelevant in the eyes of their audience.

*Risk Management: There’s inherent risk in participating in viral moments. Brands need to carefully weigh the benefits against the potential for public backlash or alienating segments of their audience.

*Examples of Successful Brand Participation: Brands like Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, and Duolingo nailed the Taylor Swift trend by integrating it seamlessly into their marketing strategies without losing their brand identity.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

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AT&T is facing a workplace culture challenge that has captured the attention of employees, investors, and all of corporate America. After a controversial return-to-office memo, questions are being asked: Is AT&T prioritizing profits over people? Or is this a smart business move?

In this episode, we break down:

AT&T’s shift from loyalty to a market-based culture

The impact of return-to-office policies on employees

Why employee voices, listening sessions, and one-on-ones matter

The risk of losing top performers vs short-term stock gains

What other companies can learn from AT&T’s challenge

This is more than just AT&T’s story — it’s about the future of work, leadership, and employee engagement.

👉 Watch now as we explore whether AT&T’s culture shift is a crisis, a turning point, or the start of a new playbook for corporate America.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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Jaguar’s EV rebrand was meant to redefine the luxury car brand — but instead, it sparked massive backlash, confused loyal customers, and even led to their CEO stepping down. In this episode, we break down exactly what went wrong with Jaguar’s electric vehicle strategy, why their marketing campaign failed, and how they can fix their brand without losing their iconic heritage.

Discover the key lessons every business can learn from Jaguar’s rebranding mistake, the reality of competing in the EV market, and the blueprint to reconnect with loyal buyers while attracting a new generation.

📌 Topics Covered:

Jaguar EV rebrand failure explained

Why the marketing campaign missed the mark

The danger of abandoning brand heritage

How to merge tradition with EV innovation

Strategies to win back luxury car buyers

If you’re interested in brand strategy, luxury cars, electric vehicles, or marketing case studies, this breakdown is a must-watch.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

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In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the challenges faced by Essence Fest, an iconic African American culture and music festival in New Orleans. They explore the festival's recent struggles, including operational issues, declining attendance, and sponsor pullback. The team proposes solutions such as regionalizing the event, creating pop-up experiences in different cities, and focusing on local vendors and artists. They emphasize the importance of reconnecting with the festival's core mission, addressing the economic challenges faced by its target demographic, and improving communication with attendees. The hosts suggest innovative ideas like career-building events and modular sponsorships to revitalize the festival while maintaining its heart and soul in New Orleans.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome" the hosts tackle American Eagle's controversial ad campaign featuring Sydney Sweeney. Marketing expert Lola Bakare joins to dissect the brand's misstep, exploring the importance of inclusive marketing and authentic consumer engagement. The discussion delves into the risks of shock marketing, the power of Gen Z consumers, and the need for diverse voices in decision-making processes. The panel offers strategic advice for American Eagle to regain trust, emphasizing accountability, employee engagement, and aligning actions with stated values. This episode challenges conventional marketing approaches and provides insights on navigating brand crises in the age of cancel culture.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

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In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the hosts tackle New York City's tourism slump. With international visits expected to drop 17% and $4 billion in potential lost spending, the team explores innovative solutions. Joined by comedian Tim Duffy, they discuss leveraging borough pride, curating unique experiences, and corporate reinvestment in communities. Ideas include borough-specific marketing, specialty interest tours, and encouraging residents to be local tourists. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by different neighborhoods, the importance of affordable accommodations, and the potential for public-private partnerships. The hosts emphasize New York's resilience and its ability to create cultural moments that attract visitors, ultimately aiming to revitalize the city's tourism industry.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," hosts Aaron Wolpoff and Melissa Eaton, joined by guest Qadira Oliver, tackle Krispy Kreme's recent challenges. They explore the donut giant's failed McDonald's partnership, declining stock, and brand identity crisis.

The team dissects Krispy Kreme's expansion strategy, discussing the mismatch between its "Hot Now" experience and McDonald's fast-food model. They propose solutions focusing on local community engagement, leveraging franchise owners' knowledge, and embracing technology for data-driven growth.

The conversation highlights the importance of stakeholder communication and maintaining brand authenticity while adapting to modern consumer needs. The episode concludes with innovative ideas like mini donut kiosks and campus locations to revitalize Krispy Kreme's presence and appeal.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the challenges facing Bowflex, a once-prominent home fitness brand now grappling with bankruptcy and a massive recall. Joined by guest Lukas Sundahl, a former personal trainer turned financial expert, the team explores the complexities of corporate accountability, consumer rights, and brand rehabilitation. They discuss the implications of Bowflex's acquisition by a Korean firm, the impact of the recall on consumer trust, and potential strategies for reviving the brand. The conversation touches on data-driven decision-making, the importance of consumer education, and the possibility of rebranding. The hosts offer creative solutions, including a potential name change to "Flex" and leveraging technology for safety training and community building.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukasnsundahl/

https://www.accountingcouture.com/

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle accessibility issues with Uber, focusing on the experiences of passengers with disabilities.

Michael Hingson, an author and disability advocate, shares insights on Uber's shortcomings in accommodating service animals and adhering to ADA guidelines. The discussion covers the need for better driver training, accountability measures, and transparent feedback systems.

The hosts and guest explore potential solutions, including embedding accessibility into core operations, closing accountability gaps, and improving customer feedback loops. They debate the effectiveness of self-identification for passengers with disabilities and emphasize the importance of treating all customers equally.

The episode concludes with a call for Uber to prioritize community needs over profit and implement meaningful changes to improve accessibility for all users.

www.michaelhingson.com

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring. By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the challenges facing Weight Watchers (WW) as it navigates a changing landscape of weight loss and wellness.

They discuss WW's $1.6 billion debt, its pivot to telehealth and GLP-1 medications, and potential strategies for revitalization. The conversation explores bundling services, rebranding, and leveraging WW's long-standing reputation to become a leader in post-injectable weight management.

The hosts propose solutions ranging from embracing semi-glutide drugs to decentralizing the brand and acquiring complementary companies. They emphasize the need for quick adaptation to market trends and the importance of maintaining community support while modernizing WW's approach to sustainable health.

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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As we prepare to launch Season 2, we are revisiting some of our most talked about episodes from the first season, and in this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the panel tackles Southwest Airlines' recent controversial changes, including introducing baggage fees and assigned seating. The hosts discuss the potential impact on Southwest's brand identity, known for its customer-friendly policies and quirky culture. 

They explore the financial motivations behind these decisions, the importance of transparent communication, and strategies for maintaining customer loyalty. The conversation touches on similar brand missteps by other companies and the delicate balance between profitability and preserving brand values. 

The panel offers insights on how Southwest can navigate this transition while retaining its unique position in the airline industry, emphasizing the crucial role of empathetic communication and leveraging its greatest asset - its people.

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As we prepare to launch Season 2, we are revisiting some of our most talked about episodes from the first season, and in this episode we look at CEOs who fail miserably yet fail upward, such as high-profile cases like Adam Neumann of WeWork, Billy McFarland of Fyre Festival, and Travis Kalanick of Uber.

The panel discusses the systemic issues that allow these leaders to continue ascending despite public failures, delving into the role of charisma, cultural intelligence, and the importance of surrounding oneself with expert teams. They debate the fine line between visionary leadership and unchecked ego, and consider the accountability of boards and investors.

The conversation touches on the American obsession with singular genius entrepreneurs and the cultural factors that contribute to this trend. Ultimately, the hosts propose a checklist of red flags to help identify and mitigate risks associated with charismatic but potentially problematic leaders.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.

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As we prepare to launch Season 2, we are revisiting some of our most talked about episodes from the first season, starting with Starbucks.

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the challenges facing Starbucks. They discuss the coffee giant's identity crisis, balancing efficiency with community, and navigating recent controversies.

The conversation explores Starbucks' competitors, loyalty programs, and the impact of cancel culture. The hosts propose a hybrid model, suggesting Starbucks create two distinct experiences: Starbucks Express for quick service and Starbucks Lounge for a community-focused atmosphere.

They emphasize the importance of data-driven decision-making, gamification of loyalty programs, and tailoring experiences to different locations. The episode concludes with recommendations for Starbucks to lean into its loyalty program, expand it, and separate locations based on customer needs.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered how everyday people would tackle some of the biggest challenges facing popular brands and services? In this special episode of “We Fixed It,” we dive into listener-submitted fixes for companies like Starbucks, Slack, and even the magazine industry. Get ready for some fresh perspectives and innovative solutions that might just change how you think about these familiar brands.

As a podcast host, I’m constantly amazed by the creativity and insight our listeners bring to the table. This episode showcases that brilliance, with fixes ranging from revolutionizing Starbucks’ drink menu to reimagining how we handle takeout containers.

Here’s a taste of what we explored:

• A mocktail revolution for Starbucks
• Cross-community search functionality for Slack
• Streamlining magazine subscription cancellations
• Eco-friendly solutions for takeout packaging

What struck me most was how these fixes often challenged conventional wisdom. They pushed us to think beyond the obvious and consider solutions that companies themselves might overlook.

One listener, Christine, proposed that Starbucks tap into the growing mocktail trend. It’s a brilliant idea that addresses several key points:

• Capitalizing on the non-alcoholic drink market
• Offering healthier, less sugary options
• Appealing to a wider demographic, including families

While the idea of Starbucks as an evening hangout spot isn’t entirely new, Christine’s suggestion to leverage the Teavana brand for this purpose was particularly intriguing. It could provide a way for Starbucks to diversify without diluting its core coffee-centric identity.

Key Takeaway: Sometimes, the solution to a company’s growth lies in assets they already own but aren’t fully utilizing.

Adam W. Barney’s fix for Slack addressed a pain point many of us face: the inability to search across multiple Slack workspaces. This idea challenges the notion that keeping workspaces separate is always beneficial.

The proposed “Slack Mesh” tool could:

• Improve productivity by making information more accessible
• Enhance the user experience for those juggling multiple communities
• Provide valuable data on cross-community interactions

While privacy concerns were raised during our discussion, the core idea speaks to a broader trend in workplace communication: the need for more seamless integration between our various professional networks.

Key Takeaway: As our professional lives become more interconnected, our tools need to evolve to support this complexity.

Michael from San Diego highlighted a frustration many of us have experienced: the difficulty of canceling magazine subscriptions. This fix isn’t just about convenience; it’s about respecting the customer’s time and choices.

Some potential solutions we discussed:

• Implementing easy online cancellation options
• Using cancellation data to improve retention strategies
• Offering transparent pricing and renewal information

This fix challenges the industry’s traditional retention tactics and suggests that building trust through transparency might be a more effective long-term strategy.

Key Takeaway: In the age of digital subscriptions, traditional publishers need to adapt their customer service approaches to meet modern expectations.

Sam Warren’s idea to use reusable containers for takeout orders was perhaps the most ambitious fix we discussed. While logistical challenges were identified, the core concept speaks to a growing consumer desire for more sustainable options.

Some creative solutions that emerged from our discussion:

• Offering branded, reusable containers for purchase
• Implementing drop-off stations for container returns
• Gamifying the use of sustainable packaging options

This fix encourages us to rethink the entire takeout experience, from ordering to disposal.

Key Takeaway: Sustainability isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore; it’s becoming a key factor in consumer decision-making.

This episode was a masterclass in creative problem-solving. Here are some key lessons:

1. Look for hidden assets: Sometimes, the solution is already within reach, like Starbucks leveraging Teavana for a new concept.
2. Challenge assumptions: Just because something has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the best way.
3. Think holistically: The best fixes often address multiple pain points simultaneously.
4. Consider the user experience: Putting yourself in the customer’s shoes can reveal opportunities for improvement that might not be obvious from a business perspective.
5. Balance innovation with practicality: While big ideas are exciting, considering the logistical and operational implications is crucial.

As we wrap up this season of “We Fixed It,” I’m more convinced than ever of the power of collective problem-solving. These listener-submitted fixes demonstrate that fresh perspectives can lead to truly innovative solutions.

In the ever-evolving landscape of job hunting and recruitment, a seismic shift is underway. Once the go-to platform for job seekers and employers alike, Indeed finds itself at a crossroads. The latest episode of “We Fix It, You’re Welcome” pulls back the curtain on the challenges facing traditional job boards and explores the rise of fractional work as a game-changing alternative.

Indeed’s dilemma is a reflection of the challenges facing the job market today. Remember when Indeed was the Holy Grail of job hunting? Those days are long gone. Today, it’s more like a black hole where resumes vanish into the void. Here’s what’s really happening:

Indeed’s Dilemma extends beyond mere statistics; it’s a call to action for both employers and job seekers to rethink their strategies in a rapidly changing world.

Remember when Indeed was the Holy Grail of job hunting? Those days are long gone. Today, it’s more like a black hole where resumes vanish into the void. Here’s what’s really happening:

Indeed’s dilemma continues to challenge recruiters and job seekers alike.

Understanding Indeed’s dilemma is crucial for both job seekers and employers navigating the current job market.

• 40% of listings may be fraudulent, according to the Wall Street Journal
• AI filters out 75% of applicants before human eyes ever see them
• Companies are drowning in unqualified spam applications
• Top talent is avoiding algorithms altogether

The result? A system where everyone loses. Companies can’t find the right candidates, and qualified job seekers can’t get noticed. It’s a mess, and it’s time for a change.

While Indeed struggles, a quiet revolution is taking place. Fractional work – where highly skilled professionals work part-time or project-based roles across multiple companies – is gaining serious traction. Here’s why it’s shaking up the hiring world:

• Companies save costs and gain flexibility
• Workers ditch the 9-to-5 grind for more autonomy
• Specialized talent is available exactly when needed

As Katie Walter, CEO of the Fractional Conference, puts it: “Fractional is a relationship business. Companies want to work with people they know, like, and trust.”

One of the biggest criticisms of platforms like Indeed is their reliance on impersonal algorithms. Chino Nnadi, a recruitment expert, emphasizes the importance of human-first recruiting:

“We need to get back to where we were 15, 20 years ago when you had the job board, it was real. There is an epidemic where it comes to people trying to mine data or put up job posts when they’re not actively ready to hire.”

This disconnect between job listings and actual openings has eroded trust in traditional job boards. Job seekers are left frustrated, and companies miss out on great talent.

The rise of fractional work isn’t just changing how companies hire – it’s transforming how professionals approach their careers. Katie Walter shares:

“When you start your solopreneur career, you have to figure out a whole new model for feeding your family. I really thrived on the idea that if I’m in a meeting, someone wants to pay me to be in this meeting. No one is wasting my time because they have to pay for it.”

This shift in mindset – from employee to valued expert – is empowering professionals to take control of their careers in new ways.

The big question: Is there hope for Indeed and other traditional job boards? Our experts believe there might be, but it will require a massive overhaul:

1. Curate real, verified job listings
2. Implement human oversight to complement AI
3. Focus on niche markets and specialized talent
4. Rebuild trust through transparency and authenticity

As Melissa Eaton suggests, “Maybe indeed can do that and put a quiet little ‘by indeed’ underneath until they earn back their name and reputation.”

The job market is evolving rapidly, and both job seekers and employers need to adapt. Here are the key takeaways:

• Traditional job boards are losing relevance
• Networking and relationships are more critical than ever
• Fractional work offers flexibility and opportunity for both sides
• The human element is essential in the hiring process

Whether you’re a job seeker frustrated with the current system or an employer struggling to find the right talent, it’s time to rethink your approach. The future of work is here, and it’s all about connections, flexibility, and finding the right fit – not just filling a seat.

Katy Perry’s journey from chart-topping sensation to struggling artist offers valuable insights for anyone navigating career transitions or brand reinvention. In our latest episode of “We Fixed It, You’re Welcome,” we dissected the challenges facing this pop icon and uncovered strategies that could help her—and you—reclaim relevance in a rapidly changing landscape.

Katy Perry’s Brand has undergone significant shifts over the years, reflecting the changes in her musical style and public perception.

Understanding the evolution of Katy Perry’s Brand is key to grasping her current challenges and opportunities.

Remember when Katy Perry was the undisputed queen of pop, dominating charts with hits like “I Kissed a Girl” and “Teenage Dream”? Those days might seem like a distant memory now, but her story is far from over. Let’s dive into what went wrong and how she—and perhaps you—can turn things around.

This trajectory has created a unique dynamic that influences Katy Perry’s Brand perception today.

The changes in the industry also affect how Katy Perry’s Brand resonates with her audience.

Katy Perry’s ascent to stardom was nothing short of meteoric. From her breakout hit in 2008 to her Super Bowl halftime show in 2015, she seemed unstoppable. But as our guest Melissa pointed out:

To fully appreciate her journey, we need to examine the cultural factors impacting Katy Perry’s Brand.

“Katy Perry’s decline stems from really ultimately brand misalignment. Right. She’s caught between chasing what are, you know, trends in the music industry and reverting to kind of an outdated formula and is really kind of losing that sense of authenticity.”

This reflection on Katy Perry’s Brand highlights the importance of alignment between actions and values.

This misalignment isn’t unique to pop stars. Many professionals find themselves chasing trends or reverting to old habits when faced with change, often losing sight of what made them successful in the first place.

Ultimately, the evolution of Katy Perry’s Brand will dictate her place in the pop music landscape.

By focusing on what makes Katy Perry’s Brand unique, she can reconnect with her core audience.

One of the most striking aspects of Perry’s recent struggles is her apparent disconnect from her audience and the cultural zeitgeist. As Chino observed:

In this light, the humor she brings could enhance Katy Perry’s Brand and foster deeper connections.

“To partner with Dr. Luke, absolutely missed completely the mark. There’s 1,000 producers here. And to make that choice, going against, you know, again, another artist who’s coming up at the same time where if you’re all about women empowerment, I’m standing with Kesha as well and not working with somebody who has all of these allegations.”

This misstep highlights a crucial lesson for all of us: your actions must align with your stated values. In today’s hyper-connected world, authenticity isn’t just appreciated—it’s demanded.

So, how can Katy Perry—or anyone facing similar challenges—stage a comeback? Our panel identified several key strategies:

Thus, understanding the past mistakes is crucial to the future of Katy Perry’s Brand.

Perry needs to develop a clear, mature artistic strategy that resonates with her current audience while staying true to her core identity. This might mean exploring new genres or collaborations that feel authentic rather than forced.

These insights are applicable to anyone aiming to reinvent their own personal brand, much like Katy Perry’s Brand has undergone transformation.

Authenticity and ownership are crucial. As Melissa suggested:

“Use humor to talk about her missteps. Right. You know, lean into those things that people expect from her and show them how smart you are.”

The music business—like many industries—is evolving rapidly. Success requires adapting to new models and platforms while maintaining your unique value proposition.

In conclusion, the journey of Katy Perry’s Brand showcases the power of resilience and reinvention.

As Chino emphasized:

“Katie, if you’re listening to this, as an OG fan, I am rooting for you. You’ve made some mistakes. Who hasn’t in life? And I do think it’s just a matter of pausing, figuring out who you are.”

This advice applies beyond the music industry. Whether you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional in any field, the team you surround yourself with can make or break your success.

Katy Perry’s story offers valuable lessons for anyone facing career challenges or seeking to reinvent their personal brand:

• Authenticity is non-negotiable. Your actions must align with your stated values.
• Adapt to change, but don’t lose sight of what makes you unique.
• Sometimes, taking a step back to reassess and realign is the best way forward.
• Your team matters. Surround yourself with people who will challenge you and provide honest feedback.

Remember, even global superstars face setbacks. The key is how you respond to them. As we concluded in the episode, Katy Perry’s brand isn’t dead—it’s just mismanaged. With the right strategy and team, a comeback is not only possible but potentially transformative.

Are you facing similar challenges in your career or personal brand? Take a page from Katy Perry’s playbook (both the successes and the missteps) and consider how you might realign your actions with your values, reconnect with your audience, and embrace change while staying true to your core identity.

Ready to dive deeper into strategies for personal and professional reinvention? Listen to the full episode for more insights and actionable advice

In the glittering world of Hollywood, where dreams are made and fortunes are won and lost, a recent event has sparked intense debate. Bob Bakish, former CEO of Paramount, walked away with a staggering $69.3 million severance package. This eye-watering sum has left many wondering: Are these golden parachutes helping or hurting the entertainment industry? This situation exemplifies Paramount’s $69 Million Problem, raising critical questions about industry practices.

Consequently, the discussion has evolved into a broader examination of Paramount’s $69 Million Problem, highlighting the implications of such payouts on industry standards and expectations. Paramount’s $69 Million Problem continues to influence conversations about fairness in compensation.

As we delved into this topic on our latest episode of “We Fixed It, You’re Welcome,” we uncovered some startling insights that might change how you view executive compensation in Hollywood and beyond.

Understanding Paramount’s $69 Million Problem sheds light on the broader issues within the industry.

Picture this: A studio executive receives a multi-million dollar payout while VFX artists struggle to make ends meet. It’s a scenario that’s becoming all too common in Tinseltown. But why does this happen, and what does it mean for the future of the industry?

As this unfolds, Paramount’s $69 Million Problem also serves as a reminder of the growing disconnect between executive compensation and the experiences of those who contribute to successful productions.

Our guest, Erik Akutagawa, who has led Academy Award-winning teams in visual effects and technology, including work with Paramount, shed light on this paradox:

This stark contrast between executive compensation and the financial struggles of creative professionals highlights the essence of Paramount’s $69 Million Problem.

“The VFX world… it’s a broken business model that unfortunately hasn’t been changed or fixed in any way, shape or form in the few decades that it’s been alive. And it will continue to perpetuate because the studios hold all the cards.”

The impact of Paramount’s $69 Million Problem can be felt across the organization, influencing employee engagement.

This stark contrast between executive compensation and the financial struggles of creative professionals raises important questions about fairness and sustainability in the entertainment industry.

Ultimately, addressing Paramount’s $69 Million Problem requires a deeper understanding of the long-term effects on company culture.

As we consider rethinking executive compensation, we must also confront Paramount’s $69 Million Problem head-on.

When news of a massive severance package breaks, it’s not just shareholders who take notice. These decisions send ripples throughout the entire organization, affecting morale and productivity at all levels.

Melissa Eaton, our operations expert, highlighted this issue:

“Loyalty and hard work are penalized. You know, layoffs, stagnant wages, really low bonuses are not hitting bonuses while failure at the top level is rewarded. So, so this just erodes any type of morale and trust in leadership.”

This erosion of trust can have long-lasting effects on a company’s culture and performance. It begs the question: Is the short-term gain of attracting top executive talent worth the potential long-term damage to employee engagement and loyalty?

So, how do we fix this seemingly broken system? Our discussion uncovered several potential solutions that could reshape how Hollywood – and other industries – approach executive compensation:

1. Performance-Based Vesting: Tie payouts to long-term performance metrics, ensuring executives only cash out if they deliver results.
2. Clawback Provisions: Implement mechanisms to reclaim money if the company later suffers due to an executive’s decisions.
3. Extended Payout Periods: Defer payments over time to prevent the “take the money and run” mentality.
4. Employee Protections: Link executive payouts to workforce stability, discouraging mass layoffs for short-term gains.
5. 360-Degree Reviews: Include employee feedback in executive performance evaluations.

As Erik pointed out, these changes would require industry-wide adoption to be effective:

“All the companies would have to follow suit because when you have a top talent, everybody’s going to want that person. How do you attract that person? You’ve got to put together the best comp package in light of issues like Paramount’s $69 Million Problem and you have to draw that talent over.”

While systemic change may seem daunting, there’s one factor that shouldn’t be overlooked: consumer power. Erik highlighted this potential catalyst for change:

Erik’s insights underscore the urgency of resolving Paramount’s $69 Million Problem if meaningful change is to happen.

“If we look at Paramount and if that’s what we’re looking at towards making a change, maybe the customer and users of Paramount products and content makes a change and says, hey, I’m not going to go back until changes are made and I see it happening because I’m not going to support this anymore.”

In conclusion, the lessons drawn from Paramount’s $69 Million Problem highlight the interconnected nature of executive decisions and consumer choices.

This approach has proven effective in other industries, as seen with recent consumer reactions to controversial decisions made by major retailers.

Our deep dive into the world of golden parachutes revealed a complex ecosystem where talent attraction, shareholder interests, and employee welfare often find themselves at odds; the crux of Paramount’s $69 Million Problem. While there’s no easy fix, the conversation has highlighted the need for a more balanced approach to executive compensation.

As we wrapped up our discussion, I proposed a thought-provoking idea:

“If the CEO gets a pre-negotiated 3 to 10 year salary… when they leave based on outsized performance, why don’t we all get that, you know, put it instituted at all levels?”

This concept challenges us to reimagine how we value and reward contributions at all levels of an organization, not just at the top.

The $69 million question remains: Can Hollywood find a way to attract top talent while also addressing Paramount’s $69 Million Problem and fostering a more equitable and sustainable industry for all?

Ever wondered why your favorite American brands taste different north of the border? Or why some Canadian products never make it to U.S. shelves? The latest episode of “We Fixed It” dives deep into these questions, revealing surprising insights about consumer preferences, brand strategies, and cultural differences between the U.S. and Canada.

In this episode, we also touch upon the ongoing Brand Battles that shape consumer choices and brand loyalty across North America.

The Brand Battles continue to influence how brands are perceived in the market.

As your host, I’m excited to share the key takeaways from our conversation with Chino, our resident Canadian expert. We’ll explore how understanding these differences can help businesses on both sides of the border thrive and potentially expand their reach.

In the ongoing Brand Battles, understanding consumer preferences is essential.

This is evident in the Brand Battles where quality often takes precedence.

These preferences play a critical role in the Brand Battles between Canadian and American products, influencing market strategies and consumer engagement.

One of the most striking revelations from our discussion is the stark contrast between Canadian and American consumer preferences. While Americans often prioritize variety and convenience, Canadians tend to favor quality and local sourcing.

Here’s what sets Canadian consumers apart:

• Strong domestic loyalty: 45% of Canadians prefer supporting local brands
• Willingness to pay more for perceived higher quality
• Preference for in-person shopping experiences
• Price sensitivity balanced with quality expectations

This preference for quality extends to food products, where Canadian standards often align more closely with European norms. For instance, Canadian cheese typically has a higher butterfat content, resulting in a richer taste and texture.

These dynamics play a significant role in the Brand Battles shaping market trends.

The Brand Battles highlight the differences in food standards between the two countries.

Chino introduced us to the concept of the “milk mafia” – the influential Dairy Farmers of Canada. This group, along with other agricultural bodies, plays a significant role in maintaining high food standards across the country.

Key impacts of these standards:

• Stricter regulations on food labeling and sourcing
• Higher quality ingredients in fast food chains (e.g., Canadian beef in McDonald’s)
• Potential barriers for international brands entering the market

These standards don’t just affect domestic products. They also influence how international brands adapt their offerings for the Canadian market. Take KitKat bars, for example. The Canadian version uses a different chocolate formula, resulting in a smoother, less gritty texture compared to its American counterpart.

Our discussion revealed fascinating insights into how brands navigate the cultural differences between the U.S. and Canada. Many companies opt for a dual citizenship approach – maintaining the same logo and name but adapting their personality to suit local tastes.

Successful strategies we observed:

• Tailoring product offerings to regional preferences
• Adjusting marketing messages to resonate with local values
• Leveraging Canadian pride in product positioning

In the context of the Brand Battles, adapting to local tastes is crucial.

A prime example of this strategy is A&W. While the brand is declining in the U.S., A&W Canada is thriving. They’ve adapted their menu to include grass-fed beef and real root beer, aligning with Canadian preferences for higher quality ingredients.

Our conversation highlighted both the challenges and opportunities for brands looking to expand across the U.S.-Canada border. We explored why some beloved brands struggle to gain traction in new markets, while others find unexpected success.

Factors influencing cross-border success:

• Cultural cachet and brand perception
• Adaptation to local tastes and standards
• Timing of market entry
• Government regulations and tariffs

Understanding these strategies is vital for success in the Brand Battles.

The Brand Battles illustrate the differences in branding strategies across borders.

These challenges are part of the larger Brand Battles between Canadian and American companies.

For instance, we discussed why In-N-Out Burger, despite its cult following in the U.S., hasn’t yet ventured into Canada. Conversely, we pondered why Tim Hortons, a Canadian icon, has struggled to capture the American market despite multiple attempts.

Our discussion revealed that both countries have unique strengths in the retail and food service industries. While Canada often leads in quality and ingredient standards, the U.S. excels in variety and convenience.

• Understand and adapt to local consumer preferences
• Maintain quality standards when expanding to new markets
• Consider the timing and cultural context of market entry
• Balance innovation with respect for local traditions

As we wrapped up our conversation, we couldn’t help but ask Chino about the top Canadian products Americans are missing out on. His top picks? The elusive Subway sub sauce and, surprisingly, Lululemon clothing purchased in Canada.

These examples underscore a crucial point: sometimes, the grass (or the maple leaf) really is greener on the other side. For brands looking to expand, understanding these nuances can be the key to success in new markets.

By learning from the Brand Battles, brands can find new opportunities.

Our deep dive into the U.S.-Canada brand landscape reveals the immense value of cultural intelligence in business strategy. Whether you’re a brand looking to expand internationally or a consumer curious about products across the border, understanding these cultural nuances can open up new worlds of opportunity.

For businesses, the lesson is clear: success in new markets requires more than just translating your marketing materials. It demands a genuine understanding of local preferences, standards, and cultural values. By embracing these differences and adapting accordingly, brands can create authentic connections with consumers on both sides of the border.

As for consumers, this discussion invites us to look beyond our usual choices and explore the diverse offerings available just across the border. Who knows? Your new favorite product might be waiting for you in a Canadian store, offering a taste of quality you never knew you were missing.

The insights gained from the Brand Battles can drive innovation.

These insights are crucial in the ongoing Brand Battles for market dominance.

The strategies used in the Brand Battles can inform future decisions for brands.

The lessons from the Brand Battles can lead to better market positioning.

Ultimately, the Brand Battles showcase the importance of cultural understanding.

In the fast-paced world of fast food, Subway finds itself at a crossroads. Once the darling of health-conscious consumers seeking a fresher alternative, the sandwich giant now grapples with an identity crisis. Can Subway reclaim its “Eat Fresh” mantra in a landscape dominated by viral marketing stunts and indulgent offerings? Let’s dive into the challenges and potential solutions for this iconic brand.

Remember when Subway was synonymous with affordable, customizable sandwiches? The $5 footlong promotion was more than just a catchy jingle—it was a cultural phenomenon that defined Subway’s brand for years. But as Chino, our resident Subway enthusiast, points out:

“Rest in peace to the best promo of all fast food history chains. And so now you have this dilemma, because the challenge right now, if I were to walk into a Subway without my coupons that I literally have sitting right there that I might pull up in a second, it’s about $25 to get 2 foot long, like, veggie basic Subways.”

This price hike has left many customers questioning Subway’s value proposition. When a basic sandwich costs $12-$13, consumers start looking at other options that might offer better quality or a more premium experience for just a few dollars more.

In an attempt to recapture consumer attention, Subway has launched a series of headline-grabbing promotions:

Footlong cookies, churros, and pretzels

Footlong Dippers (flatbread roll-ups with dipping sauces)

A footlong tray of Doritos-based nachos

While these offerings might generate short-term buzz, they risk alienating Subway’s core customer base. Melissa aptly describes this as “identity whiplash”:

“Customers don’t want identity whiplash which is what they’re kind of getting with Subway. Inconsistent quality because these are franchises and when you throw in these Limited time offers. You’re expecting that franchise owner to be able to bring to you a Cinnabon footlong? We’re used. We’re having difficulty just keeping up with the bread order.”

It’s crucial to remember that Subway operates on a franchise model. While corporate might be eager to experiment with viral marketing tactics, franchise owners bear the brunt of implementing these changes. As Aaron points out:

“We should remember this is a franchise model with about $150,000 buy in at least. So and the franchisees don’t want as much as it brings in foot traffic. They don’t want the $5 model when maybe a corporate can absorb it at the corporate level to run these limited time offers. But a franchisee is a small business. You know, they’ve got to be profitable.”

So, how can Subway navigate this identity crisis and reclaim its position as a leader in the fast food industry? Here are some key strategies:

Subway’s “Eat Fresh” slogan was more than just marketing—it was a promise to consumers. To regain trust and differentiate from competitors, Subway needs to recommit to this core value. Melissa suggests:

“Doubling down on fresh, like going back to what they were known for and partner with like local farms, local farmers markets for hyper fresh ingredients, just like Their competitors, like Jersey Mike’s does, right?”

What sets Subway apart from other fast food chains is the ability for customers to customize their orders. This unique selling point should be at the forefront of Subway’s marketing efforts. Chino emphasizes:

“The soul of Subway is really the sandwich artists, engineers, architects. Yes, I’m sure everyone’s been there. The right person can really make or break your sub. And so make it easy for your artists to bring out great subs, like, bring that consistency, make people fall in love, make people addicted.”

Subway’s marketing efforts need a refresh to connect with younger consumers while retaining loyal customers. Some ideas include:

Creating a “secret menu” to generate buzz and reward loyal customers

Developing a subscription model or “Subway Pass” for frequent visitors

Collaborating with social media influencers to create signature sandwiches

Both Chino and Melissa were surprised to learn about Subway’s breakfast menu, despite being frequent customers. This highlights a significant opportunity for Subway to better communicate its full range of offerings. As Chino notes:

“I didn’t even really know that they had a breakfast menu until, like, two or three years ago, right? And that’s a huge thing. And I remember they had the Beyond Meat little patties, and they had it for like, two or three months.”

Instead of trying to implement one-size-fits-all promotions, Subway could empower franchise owners to create regional or seasonal specials. Melissa suggests:

“Maybe they’re regionalized, right? So they’re like, oh, you know, Chino, to your point that this is what happens once a year here. You know, we want to, you know, I’m just making this up, but like, you know, there’s like the Gilroy Garlic Festival, you know, in Northern California. And so like, maybe for that month that they have that they have like a garlic bread type of sandwich or something.”

Subway’s path forward isn’t about abandoning its core identity for flashy promotions. Instead, it’s about rediscovering what made the brand successful in the first place: fresh ingredients, customization, and consistency. By modernizing these core values and communicating them effectively to both new and loyal customers, Subway can regain its footing in the competitive fast food landscape.

As you reflect on Subway’s challenges and potential solutions, consider how these lessons might apply to your own business or personal brand. Are you staying true to your core values while adapting to changing consumer preferences? How can you better communicate your unique offerings to your target audience?

If you found these insights valuable, be sure to listen to the full episode for more in-depth analysis and creative solutions for Subway’s brand revival. And remember, whether you’re running a global franchise or a local sandwich shop, staying true to your brand’s soul while innovating for the future is the key to long-term success.

The Death of DEI? How Target’s Retreat Reveals a Deeper Business Truth

Target’s recent decision to roll back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has sparked intense debate. But beneath the surface lies a crucial lesson for businesses everywhere. Is DEI truly dead, or are we witnessing the birth of something even more powerful?

Let’s unpack the real story behind Target’s controversial move and explore why diversity might be your company’s secret weapon for growth – if you know how to wield it.

In 2020, Target made headlines with a bold $100 million pledge to support Black communities and expand supplier diversity. Fast forward to today, and the retail giant is backpedaling, renaming programs, and distancing itself from DEI language.

But here’s the kicker: Target’s diversity-focused product lines were outperforming others by 27%. So why abandon a winning strategy?

The answer lies in a perfect storm of political pressure, fear of backlash, and a fundamental misunderstanding of what DEI really means for business.

Let’s cut through the noise and focus on cold, hard facts:

Companies with strong DEI scores show 1.5 times higher customer loyalty rates.

Diverse suppliers brought 35% more profitability to Target.

Sephora saw a 25% sales boost in categories after committing to stock more Black-owned brands.

These aren’t feel-good statistics – they’re profit drivers. So why are some companies retreating while others double down?

The key lies in perspective. Is diversity a liability or an investment for growth?

Here’s where many businesses (Target included) are missing the mark. True diversity isn’t about checking boxes or appeasing any particular group. It’s about:

• Expanding your customer base
• Fostering innovation through diverse perspectives
• Building brand loyalty across communities
• Attracting top talent in a competitive market

“DEI as we’ve known it is dead,” says our guest Chino. “But the core principles – diverse perspectives, equitable practices, and inclusive environments – are more critical than ever for business success.”

So how can companies navigate this tricky landscape? Our experts suggest a three-pronged approach:

1. Rebrand, Don’t Retreat: Instead of abandoning DEI principles, reframe them. Focus on “belonging” and “engagement” – concepts that resonate across all demographics.
2. Let Data Drive Decisions: Don’t let fear dictate strategy. Look at the numbers. If diverse product lines and suppliers are driving growth, double down on what works.
3. Live Your Values: Empty promises backfire. As Melissa points out, “Target’s rollback makes it feel very reactive to the atmosphere of the political climate right now. So it doesn’t feel strategic.”

Here’s the bottom line: In today’s global marketplace, diversity isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a business imperative. Companies that embrace this reality will thrive. Those that don’t risk alienating customers, stifling innovation, and ultimately, falling behind.

As Aaron wisely notes, “Don’t get swept up in a moment, stay the course. If there’s something, of course, evolve as a company and a brand, but don’t get swept up in a moment that’s gonna probably come and go and smooth out.”

Target’s misstep offers a valuable lesson for all businesses:

Don’t panic and abandon core values.

Recognize the real risks of retreating from inclusive practices.

Develop a strategic plan for the evolution of diversity and inclusion efforts.

The companies that will win in the long run are those that see diversity not as a political minefield, but as a powerful engine for growth, innovation, and customer loyalty.

Are you ready to harness the true power of diversity in your business? It’s time to move beyond buzzwords and embrace inclusion as a fundamental driver of success.

The world of fast fashion is at a crossroads. Giants like Shein and Temu have dominated the market with ultra-cheap, trendy clothing. But as consumers become more conscious of sustainability and ethical practices, can these companies adapt and survive?

In our latest episode of “We Fixed It, You’re Welcome” we tackled this pressing issue head-on. Here’s what we uncovered about the future of fast fashion and how these companies might navigate the changing landscape.

For over a decade, fast fashion has ruled our closets and wallets. Shein led the charge, transforming from an obscure app to a global powerhouse. Their secret? Selling dirt-cheap, hyper-trendy clothing faster than you can say “$5 crop top.”

But the seams are starting to unravel. Shein’s recent IPO announcement comes amid a storm of controversy:

• Allegations of forced labor in cotton industries
• Copyright theft from small designers
• Mounting environmental concerns Meanwhile, Temu, a newer player, is exploding in Western markets with a different approach:
• Gamified shopping experience
• Marketplace model avoiding direct production
• Cutthroat pricing that seems too good to be true

Both companies are reshaping how we shop. But they’re also under intense scrutiny. Can they escape what’s coming?

Here’s the uncomfortable reality: consumers say they care about ethics, sustainability, and fair labor. But time and time again, they still click “buy now” on that $4 t-shirt.

“It’s been an interesting moral dilemma,” our guest Chino noted. “I had paused shopping on Shein because some of the things, when you would get them, not the best quality of work… But there’s sometimes I still look at Shein and I’m like, ‘Ooh, I could have got that for so much cheaper here.'”

This disconnect between values and actions is at the heart of the fast fashion problem. How do we balance our desire for cheap, trendy clothes with our ethical concerns?

Just as we were recording, breaking news hit: massive tariffs are being imposed on Chinese imports, including those from Shein and Temu. This could quadruple prices overnight, potentially destroying their entire business model.

“Their pitch was we are going to sell you something that’s maybe not the best quality but for super cheap,” Chino explained. “If it’s no longer cheap for me, I don’t want to support you.”

This sudden shift forces these companies to pivot quickly. But could it also be an opportunity for real change?

Shein and Temu need to get ahead of the ethical concerns. Our suggestion? Use their massive influence to set new standards for their suppliers.

“If you hold your suppliers accountable… and say this is now the new standard, if not, you don’t work with us, you’re going to want to work with us,” Chino proposed. “They’re going to fix it. Right. So immediately you’re changing the name and face of fast fashion as we know it.”

We proposed the idea of flagship stores that go beyond just selling clothes:

• Educational displays about sustainability practices
• Recycling bins for old clothes
• Workshops on upcycling and repairing garments

“I love the idea of building kind of this pop-up idea,” Melissa enthused. “Where you take a T-shirt and make a tote bag… And then telling the stories I think is really important behind the fashion.”

With higher prices inevitable, these companies need to offer more value. We suggested partnering with designers to create upcycled pieces from recycled clothing:

“Wouldn’t it be cool if they had partnerships with these really big-time designers that made something from these T-shirts, like a dress or whatever it might be and sold some of these things,” Melissa proposed.

As prices rise, consumers need to feel good about their purchases. Our solution? Use retail spaces and marketing to tell compelling stories about ethical production and sustainability efforts.

“I think that will also help them sustain through rough times like this geopolitical climate right now,” Melissa noted. “Being able to kind of derive their own narrative instead of falling victim to people canceling them.”

The fast fashion industry is at a pivotal moment. Companies like Shein and Temu have two choices: adapt or die. The path forward isn’t easy, but it’s necessary:

• Prioritize transparency and ethical practices
• Invest in sustainability and circular fashion models
• Create meaningful experiences that go beyond just cheap clothes
• Tell compelling stories that justify higher prices

The days of $4 t-shirts may be numbered. But that doesn’t mean the end of affordable fashion. Instead, it’s an opportunity to create a more sustainable, ethical industry that still delivers value to consumers

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, the line between technological advancement and personal privacy is becoming increasingly blurred. This week’s episode of “We Fixed It” delves into the heart of this issue, focusing on Amazon’s recent changes to its smart assistant’s privacy policies. As we unpack the complexities of data collection, AI training, and consumer trust, we’re left with a crucial question: How can we embrace the benefits of AI without compromising our personal information?

Remember when smart speakers were just glorified alarm clocks? Those days are long gone. Today, these devices are the gateway to an interconnected smart home ecosystem, capable of controlling everything from your lights to your security system. But with great power comes great responsibility – and great data collection.

Amazon’s recent announcement that all voice interactions with their smart assistant will be sent directly to the company for analysis and training has sparked a heated debate. On one hand, this data is crucial for improving AI capabilities. On the other, it’s a significant erosion of user privacy. As Christian Johnson, founder of Metis Analytics, points out:

“People lose trust in systems that aren’t protecting your data… Large big tech really has to be staying focused on privacy.”

This sentiment echoes throughout the tech industry, with companies like Apple and Google facing similar scrutiny over their data practices. But is there a way to have our AI cake and eat it too?

One key takeaway from our discussion is the critical importance of transparency. Melissa Eaton emphasizes:

“It’s about transparency and understanding the policy. Right. So understanding what the data is being used for when you’re being listened to by multiple devices.”

This isn’t just about burying privacy policies in fine print. It’s about actively engaging users in the data collection process, giving them clear opt-out choices, and positioning privacy as a feature, not an afterthought.

But here’s where it gets tricky: How much transparency is too much? At what point does the average consumer tune out from information overload? Finding that balance is crucial for companies like Amazon as they navigate the AI landscape.

Interestingly, our discussion revealed a potential generational split in attitudes towards AI and data privacy. As Chino Nnadi points out:

“I’m one of the weird kind of younger millennials that I’m very against collecting my data… I don’t want you to learn from me.”

This perspective challenges the assumption that younger generations are universally comfortable with data sharing. It raises important questions about how AI companies should approach different demographic groups and their varying privacy concerns.

Perhaps the most exciting insight from our conversation came from Christian Johnson’s vision of a more decentralized AI future:

“With like an edge server that’s sitting in your house, it doesn’t have to go to an outside server… We’re getting to the point where… all that data just stays within your home and within your ability to be able to train it and teach it.”

This concept of “local AI” could revolutionize how we think about data privacy. Imagine having all the benefits of a smart assistant without the worry of your data being stored on distant servers. It’s a tantalizing prospect that could reshape the AI landscape.

As we wrapped up our discussion, several key takeaways emerged:

1. Transparency is non-negotiable: Companies must be upfront about data collection and usage.
2. Privacy should be a feature, not an afterthought: Opt-out options and clear controls are essential.
3. One size doesn’t fit all: Different generations and demographics have varying privacy concerns.
4. Local AI could be the future: Decentralized, in-home AI processing could revolutionize data privacy.
5. The balance between innovation and privacy is delicate: Companies must navigate this carefully to maintain consumer trust.

So, have we fixed the AI privacy dilemma? Not entirely. But we’ve certainly illuminated some promising paths forward. As consumers, we must stay informed and vocal about our privacy preferences. As companies, the challenge is to innovate responsibly, keeping user trust at the forefront of technological advancement.

The future of AI is bright, but only if we can find a way to harness its power without compromising our personal data. It’s a complex puzzle, but one that’s well worth solving. After all, in the world of AI, our data isn’t just information – it’s the very essence of who we are.

Southwest Airlines has long been the darling of budget-conscious travelers, known for its quirky personality, no-frills approach, and customer-first ethos. But recent changes have left many loyal customers feeling betrayed. Can the airline navigate this turbulence and emerge stronger? Let’s explore the valuable lessons in brand management, customer loyalty, and crisis communication that Southwest’s current situation offers.

Southwest recently announced significant shifts in its policies, including:

• Introduction of baggage fees
• Implementation of assigned seating
• Cuts to the value of its Rapid Rewards loyalty program

These changes strike at the heart of what made Southwest unique in the airline industry. For decades, the carrier prided itself on being different – offering free checked bags, open seating, and a straightforward loyalty program that customers loved.

But why make such drastic changes now?

“In business there are two ways to make money. You can innovate or you can nickel and dime your customers. Southwest just chose to do the latter,” explains Sam, our finance expert.

It’s a stark reminder that even beloved brands must sometimes make tough decisions to remain financially viable. Southwest estimates these changes could bring in $1.5 billion in annual revenue – a significant boost for an airline that lost over $200 million in just one quarter last year.

While the financial motivations are clear, Southwest’s execution of these changes has left much to be desired. The announcements came across as cold and calculated – a far cry from the warm, quirky brand voice customers have come to expect.

“For a company known for heart, it could have been delivered with heart,” notes Aaron, our marketing expert. “Since it was presented in such a calculated manner… that’s why we’re seeing so much pushback right now.”

This misstep highlights a crucial lesson for all businesses: How you communicate changes is just as important as the changes themselves.

So, how can Southwest – or any brand facing a similar crisis – regain customer trust and loyalty? Our panel of experts offers some valuable insights:

“Just own it,” suggests Melissa, our operations expert. “Say, ‘We didn’t mean to break your hearts.'”

Being honest about the reasons behind tough decisions and acknowledging customer disappointment can go a long way in rebuilding trust.

“Customer service can make or break a brand,” Chino, our HR expert, reminds us. “If they can lean into that… it can help rebuild some of this brand perception that they’ve lost.”

Southwest’s friendly, quirky staff has always been a key differentiator. Now is the time to empower those employees to go above and beyond in delighting customers.

Consider new ways to reward loyal customers that align with your new business realities. Melissa suggests ideas like a “baggage club” where frequent flyers could pay an annual fee for unlimited checked bags.

Southwest built its brand on being different and fun. There’s no reason that spirit can’t extend to how they handle this transition. Chino proposes “having a cheeky campaign saying, ‘Hey, if you want to keep flying, we stay in business.'”

While investors may cheer short-term revenue boosts, alienating your core customer base is a dangerous game. As Sam cautions, “Southwest should try and play the long game or they’re going to get played.”

Southwest’s current struggles offer valuable lessons for any business navigating significant changes:

• Communication is key: How you deliver news matters just as much as the news itself.
• Know your differentiators: Understand what truly sets you apart and be cautious about eroding those unique selling points.
• Empower your people: In times of change, your employees can be your greatest asset in maintaining customer goodwill.
• Be creative: Look for win-win solutions that balance business needs with customer expectations.
• Stay true to your core: Even as you evolve, find ways to maintain the essence of what made customers fall in love with your brand in the first place.

The jury is still out on whether Southwest can successfully navigate this turbulence. But by learning from both their missteps and the enduring strength of their brand, other businesses can chart a smoother course through their own periods of change and challenge.

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle crowdsourced fixes from listeners.

They explore ideas for Starbucks to introduce healthier, family-friendly drinks and mocktails, leveraging the Teavana brand. The team discusses Costco's checkout process, suggesting ways to streamline it for customers with fewer items. They also address the challenges of magazine subscription cancellations and propose solutions for more sustainable takeout packaging.

Throughout the episode, the hosts balance creativity with practicality, considering operational challenges and consumer behavior. The discussion showcases the podcast's unique approach of reimagining business practices through collaborative problem-solving.

https://wefixeditpod.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the challenges facing Indeed and the broader job board industry. Joined by Katie Walter, CEO of the Fractional Conference, they explore the rise of fractional work and its impact on traditional hiring practices.

The discussion covers the shortcomings of current job board algorithms, the growing distrust in online job postings, and the shift towards more curated, relationship-based hiring methods. The team proposes solutions for Indeed to regain relevance, including better curation of job listings, embracing the fractional workforce trend, and potentially rebranding to rebuild trust.

The episode highlights the changing dynamics of the job market and the need for more personalized, meaningful connections between employers and job seekers.

https://fractionalconference.com/

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the brand challenges facing pop star Katy Perry. They analyze her career trajectory, from early success to recent struggles with album sales and tour ticket sales. 

The discussion covers Perry's musical evolution, cultural relevance, and commercial decline, highlighting missteps like collaborating with controversial producer Dr. Luke. The hosts propose strategies for Perry to reconnect with her audience, including embracing authenticity, reassessing her team, and potentially pivoting to more intimate performances. 

They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and adapting to changing market conditions in the music industry. The episode concludes with optimism about Perry's potential for a comeback if she redefines her artistic vision and engages more genuinely with her fanbase.

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the controversial topic of executive compensation, focusing on Paramount Pictures and its former CEO Bob Bakish's $69.3 million severance package. 

The panel, including guest Erik Akutagawa, discusses the ethics of golden parachutes, their impact on employee morale, and potential solutions to align executive pay with company performance. They explore ideas such as performance-based vesting, clawback provisions, and linking executive outcomes to worker protections. 

The conversation delves into the broader implications of these practices across industries, touching on similar issues in sports and retail. The hosts propose structural reforms to create more accountability and fairness in executive compensation, while acknowledging the challenges of implementing such changes in the current corporate landscape.

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the hosts explore cultural and product differences between the United States and Canada. They discuss unique Canadian offerings like specialty sauces at Subway, higher quality fast food, and distinctive snack flavors.

The conversation delves into consumer preferences, brand loyalty, and government regulations affecting product quality and availability. The hosts examine why some American brands struggle to expand into Canada and vice versa, highlighting the importance of understanding local markets.

They also touch on the impact of government monopolies on alcohol sales in Ontario and the potential for cross-border product exchanges. The episode concludes with recommendations for Americans to explore Canadian products and for businesses to consider expansion strategies carefully.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the challenges facing Subway, the international sandwich chain. They explore Subway's recent identity crisis, including gimmicky limited-time offers and a shift away from its "eat fresh" image.

The discussion covers Subway's history, franchisee concerns, and the need to reconnect with core customers. The hosts propose solutions such as doubling down on fresh ingredients, creating a secret menu, and improving marketing strategies.

They emphasize the importance of consistency, customization, and educating customers about existing offerings. With the recent appointment of Greg Lyons as global chief marketing officer, the hosts express optimism about Subway's potential to revitalize its brand and appeal to a new generation of customers.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the controversial topic of Target's recent rollback of DEI initiatives. They explore the business implications, political pressures, and customer reactions surrounding this decision. The discussion delves into the evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion in corporate America, examining how companies like Target, Walmart, and Costco are navigating these challenges. The hosts offer insights on rebranding DEI efforts, maintaining brand integrity, and the importance of fostering belonging in business strategies. They conclude with recommendations for Target to salvage its reputation and realign with customer expectations, emphasizing the need for companies to adapt their approach to diversity and inclusion without abandoning core values.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome" hosts Aaron, Melissa, and Chino tackle the challenges facing fast fashion giants Shein and Temu. They explore the ethical dilemmas of cheap clothing, labor practices, and environmental impact.

The conversation delves into Shein's IPO plans, the effects of new tariffs, and potential strategies for sustainability. The hosts propose innovative solutions, including transparency in supply chains, pop-up stores for upcycling, and partnerships with designers. They discuss the shift towards thrifting culture and the need for these companies to adapt their business models.

The episode concludes with suggestions for how Shein and Temu can legitimize their brands and navigate the changing landscape of fast fashion.

Fast Fashion Under Fire: Shein and Temu

• Melissa Eaton presents the topic of fast fashion's dominance and scrutiny
• Shein's IPO announcement and allegations of labor issues and copyright theft
• Temu's gamified shopping model and viral growth

Consumer Behavior and Ethical Dilemmas

• Chino Nnadi shares personal experiences with fast fashion purchases
• The rise of thrifting among younger generations
• Balancing cost, convenience, and ethical concerns

Marketplace Accountability and Transparency

• Discussion on the responsibility of marketplaces like Shein and Temu
• Comparison to Amazon and Etsy's efforts to clean up their platforms

Impact of Tariffs and Inflation

• Analysis of how increased tariffs affect fast fashion business models
• Challenges for small businesses relying on cheap overseas supplies

Sustainability Initiatives and Greenwashing

• Examination of H&M's "conscious collection" backlash
• Everlane's transparency in cost breakdown as a positive example

Recycling and Resale Programs

• Zara's in-store repair and resale pilot in the UK
• H&M's take-back boxes for clothing recycling

IPO Challenges for Shein

• Discussion on the timing and potential risks of Shein's IPO
• Regulatory scrutiny and investor confidence concerns

Proposed Solutions and "Fixes"

• Suggestion for Shein and Temu to establish retail presence
• Ideas for pop-up stores focusing on sustainability and DIY fashion
• Importance of transparency and storytelling in brand building

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.

Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the hosts tackle Amazon's AI assistant, Alexa, and its recent privacy policy changes. Joined by guest Christian Johnson of Metis Analytics, they explore the implications of Amazon's data collection practices and the future of AI in our homes.

The discussion covers the balance between technological advancement and personal privacy, with perspectives ranging from embracing AI's benefits to concerns about data ownership and identity protection. Christian offers insights into edge computing and local AI models as potential solutions, while the hosts debate the ethical considerations of AI development and data usage.

The episode concludes with recommendations for Amazon to prioritize transparency and user control in their AI offerings.

https://www.metisos.co/Evolution of Amazon's AI Assistant

• Discussion of the AI assistant's development since 2014.
• Mention of over 600 million devices sold and initial financial losses

Privacy Concerns and Data Collection

• Recent rollback of privacy protections by Amazon.
• Introduction of OWL Plus and its implications for data collection.

Transparency and User Control

• Importance of clear opt-out choices and positioning privacy as a feature.
• Comparison with other tech companies' approaches to data privacy.

AI Development and Data Usage

• The need for data to train AI models and improve services.
• Balancing technological advancement with user privacy.

Generational Perspectives on AI and Privacy

• Differing views on AI adoption across age groups.
• Discussion of the trade-offs between convenience and data protection.

Edge Computing and Local AI Processing

• Potential for AI processing on local devices to enhance privacy.
• Christian Johnson's insights on edge servers and personal data control.

Ethical Considerations in AI Development

• Debate on the use of personal data for AI training.
• Concerns about identity protection and data ownership.

Future of AI and Personal Data Management

• Exploration of individual language learning models (LLMs).
• Potential for users to have greater control over their data.

Amazon's Opportunity for Privacy Leadership

• Suggestions for Amazon to champion privacy and build trust.
• Importance of clear communication and user-controlled privacy settings.

Balancing AI Advancement with Privacy Protection

• Discussion on the necessity of continuous data collection for AI improvement.
• Exploring alternatives to centralized data storage and processing.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the panel tackles Southwest Airlines' recent controversial changes, including introducing baggage fees and assigned seating. The hosts discuss the potential impact on Southwest's brand identity, known for its customer-friendly policies and quirky culture. 

They explore the financial motivations behind these decisions, the importance of transparent communication, and strategies for maintaining customer loyalty. The conversation touches on similar brand missteps by other companies and the delicate balance between profitability and preserving brand values. 

The panel offers insights on how Southwest can navigate this transition while retaining its unique position in the airline industry, emphasizing the crucial role of empathetic communication and leveraging its greatest asset - its people.

Southwest Airlines: Brand Identity Crisis

• Melissa Eaton presents Southwest Airlines as the focus company.
• Discussion of Southwest's revolutionary approach to air travel and recent changes.

Brand Loyalty and Customer Perception

• Exploration of Southwest's brand ethos and customer-first policies.
• Analysis of recent policy changes and their impact on brand loyalty.

Financial Implications and Investor Influence

• Sam Palazzolo shares insights on Southwest's financial situation.
• Discussion of activist investor influence on company decisions.

Customer Experience and Brand Communication

• Examination of Southwest's communication strategy for policy changes.
• Importance of maintaining brand personality during transitions.

Employee Impact and Customer Service

• Chino Nnadi highlights the potential effects on Southwest employees.
• Emphasis on maintaining excellent customer service during transitions.

Brand Missteps and Recovery Strategies

• Examples of other companies facing brand identity challenges.
• Suggestions for Southwest to recover and maintain customer trust.

Long-term Brand Strategy

• Debate on balancing financial needs with brand promises.
• Discussion on the importance of transparency and empathy in communication.

Crisis Management and Future Outlook

• Panel's assessment of Southwest's ability to recover from the situation.
• Recommendations for Southwest to leverage its strengths and rebuild trust.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aaron Wolpoff and Chino Nnadi discuss the fate of physical media in the digital age, sparked by Warner Bros' disintegrating DVDs. They explore the nostalgia and value of owning tangible entertainment, from curated DVD collections to mixtapes.

The hosts debate the responsibilities of studios in preserving older formats and suggest ways Warner Bros could turn the situation into a marketing opportunity. They argue for the continued relevance of physical media, highlighting its role in personal identity, cinematic history, and preserving original content.

The conversation touches on the unique experience of intentional media consumption and the importance of catering to loyal fans, ultimately making a case for the coexistence of physical and digital media.

The Relevance of Physical Media in the Digital Age

- Exploring the importance of DVDs and CDs in an era dominated by streaming services.

- Discussing the nostalgia and tangible ownership associated with physical media.

Curated Collections and Personal Identity

- The significance of curated DVD collections as extensions of personal identity.

- Comparing algorithmic recommendations to personal curation and sharing.

The Communal Aspect of Physical Media

- Reminiscing about video stores and the social experience of renting movies.

- The loss of community spaces centered around physical media consumption.

Preservation of Cinematic History

- The importance of physical media in preserving diverse and niche film content.

- Concerns about losing access to movies not available on streaming platforms.

Warner Bros.' Responsibility and Brand Loyalty

- Debating the extent of Warner Bros.' responsibility to replace disintegrating DVDs.

- Discussing potential marketing opportunities and maintaining brand loyalty.

The Future of Physical Media

- Exploring the continued relevance of vinyl records and other physical formats.

- The desire for tangible ownership in an increasingly digital world.

Creating Intentional Viewing Experiences

- The value of limited choices and intentional selection in media consumption.

- Breaking away from algorithmic recommendations to discover new content.

Balancing Digital Convenience with Physical Ownership

- Recognizing the benefits of both streaming services and physical media collections.

- The importance of preserving original content that may be altered on digital platforms.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome" the panel tackles the pressing issue of mass layoffs sweeping across industries. Joined by Christina Sacco from Produs Global, the discussion explores the complexities of workforce reductions.

The conversation delves into the fiscal realities driving layoffs, the importance of strategic planning, and the human impact on both departing and remaining employees. The panel offers insights on maintaining company culture, effective communication strategies, and the potential long-term consequences of mishandled layoffs.

While acknowledging that layoffs are an enduring business practice, the episode provides valuable perspectives on executing workforce reductions more humanely and strategically.

https://protisglobal.com/Current Landscape of Mass Layoffs

• Overview of recent layoffs at major companies like Intel, FedEx, Neiman Marcus, and others.
• Discussion on whether this is a recurring cycle or uncharted territory.

Recruitment and Talent Acquisition Perspective

• Christina and Chino share insights on the evolving job market pre-COVID, during COVID, and post-COVID.
• Analysis of hiring trends, salary expectations, and candidate availability.

Strategic Workforce Planning

• Christina emphasizes the importance of balancing full-time staff with specialized contract workers.
• Discussion on avoiding redundancies and maintaining operational efficiency.

Corporate Responsibility in Layoffs

• Melissa highlights the need for transparency, mindful execution, and ethical considerations.
• Importance of clear communication and supporting remaining employees.

Financial Perspective on Layoffs

• Sam discusses the immediate cost reduction, boost in shareholder value, and operational efficiency.
• Analysis of layoffs as a strategic realignment opportunity.

Impact on Company Culture and Employer Branding

• Christina emphasizes the importance of hiring aligned with company values.
• Discussion on rebuilding trust and morale after layoffs.

Humane Approach to Layoffs

• Chino advocates for more empathetic and supportive layoff processes.
• Suggestions for extending benefits, connecting laid-off employees with recruiters, and maintaining dignity.

Employee Responsibility and Career Management

• Melissa and Sam discuss the importance of employees regularly assessing their market value.
• Debate on the pros and cons of "shopping around" for job offers.

Future Implications of Mass Layoffs

• Aaron predicts the rise of challenger brands formed by laid-off talent.
• Discussion on the potential long-term consequences for companies conducting mass layoffs.

Balancing Business Needs with Human Considerations

• Panel agrees on the necessity of layoffs in some cases but emphasizes the need for strategic and humane execution.
• Importance of preserving core capabilities and maintaining employee trust.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the team tackles Duolingo's marketing success. They explore how the language-learning app's chaotic, culturally-relevant social media presence has captivated audiences worldwide.

The discussion delves into Duolingo's freemium model, rapid content creation process, and the trust placed in young talent like Zaria Parvez. The panel examines how Duolingo's marketing aligns with its gamified product experience and analyzes the financial impacts of their strategy.

They also consider the challenges of sustaining this approach long-term and what other brands can learn from Duolingo's success. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity, brand voice, and adaptability in modern marketing.Duolingo's Marketing Success

• Discussion of Duolingo's chaotic and unhinged marketing approach.
• Analysis of why Duolingo's social presence feels effortless and culturally relevant.

Product-Marketing Alignment

• Melissa highlights how Duolingo's marketing mirrors the app's playful and gamified nature.
• Aaron compares Duolingo's approach to traditional language learning tools like Rosetta Stone.

Financial Perspective on Duolingo's Strategy

• Sam outlines four key aspects of Duolingo's business model:
• 1. Near-zero customer acquisition cost
• 2. Engaged user base translating to revenue growth
• 3. Success without paid marketing
• 4. ROI tracking through key metrics like retention

TikTok Strategy and Brand Voice

• Chino discusses Duolingo's early adoption of TikTok and their ability to leverage trends quickly.
• The team explores the importance of trust in young talent for social media management.

Brand Positioning and Mascot Strategy

• Aaron analyzes Duolingo's positioning of Duo as an aggressive presence on social media.
• Comparison to other brand mascots like the Kool-Aid Man and the Noid.

Leadership Challenges and Talent Recognition

• Discussion on the rarity of allowing young talent like Zaria Parvez to lead brand strategy.
• Sam emphasizes the importance of leaders being open to new ideas and leveraging AI tools.

Brand Authenticity and Long-term Impact

• Melissa highlights the importance of brand alignment and crisis management in social media strategies.
• The team discusses the challenges of maintaining authenticity while scaling.

Retention and Monetization in Freemium Models

• Sam explains how Duolingo converts free users to paying subscribers at a higher rate than most freemium apps.
• Analysis of engagement metrics and their translation to user acquisition trends.

Sustainability of Brand Voice and Character

• The team debates the long-term sustainability of Duolingo's marketing approach.
• Discussion on potential paths for growth and expansion beyond the current model.

Lessons for Other Companies

• Chino emphasizes finding a unique brand voice that aligns with the product.
• Melissa highlights the importance of adaptability and platform-specific strategies.
• Sam stresses the blend of financial insights, viral strategy, and monetization mechanics.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome" the hosts tackle the complex issue of healthcare reform, comparing the integrated model of Kaiser Permanente with Mexico's private healthcare system.

Guest Eduardo Verboonen Khoury, co-president of Hospitales Mac, shares insights on delivering high-quality care at lower costs through innovative practices and incentives.

The discussion explores topics such as technology integration, billing efficiency, doctor accessibility, and preventive care. The panel debates whether elements of Mexico's private healthcare model could be applied to improve systems in the US and Canada, addressing challenges like wait times, cost transparency, and doctor shortages.

While not claiming to have all the answers, the conversation highlights actionable insights for healthcare improvement across borders.Challenges in US Healthcare

• Discussion of soaring costs, uneven access, and bureaucracy in the US healthcare system.
• Comparison with Mexico's private systems like Hospitales Mac, offering quality care at lower costs.

Hospitales Mac's Approach

• Eduardo explains the company's mission to provide high-quality, affordable healthcare.
• Focus on efficiency, flexibility, and maintaining high-quality standards.

Innovative Cost-Saving Strategies

• Direct negotiations with suppliers and providers to reduce costs.
• In-house construction and real estate management for hospitals.
• Emphasis on repairing and refurbishing equipment instead of replacing.

Technology Integration in Healthcare

• Use of AI in CAD labs to optimize procedures and reduce costs.
• Streamlined billing processes with insurance companies, reducing claim closure time.

Doctor Incentives and Accessibility

• Implementation of a call role system for doctors to ensure quick access for patients.
• Building medical towers adjacent to hospitals for improved doctor accessibility.

Preventive Care and Future Challenges

• Acknowledgment of the need to improve preventive care in Mexico.
• Discussion on scalability challenges for both Hospitales Mac and Kaiser Permanente.

Comparison with US and Canadian Healthcare Systems

• Exploration of how Hospitales Mac's model could potentially address issues in US and Canadian healthcare.
• Discussion on the possibility of integrating private healthcare models with public systems.

Key Takeaways and Future Outlook

• Emphasis on continuous improvement and innovation in healthcare delivery.
• Potential for cross-border learning and adaptation of successful healthcare strategies.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the challenges facing Starbucks. They discuss the coffee giant's identity crisis, balancing efficiency with community, and navigating recent controversies.

The conversation explores Starbucks' competitors, loyalty programs, and the impact of cancel culture. The hosts propose a hybrid model, suggesting Starbucks create two distinct experiences: Starbucks Express for quick service and Starbucks Lounge for a community-focused atmosphere.

They emphasize the importance of data-driven decision-making, gamification of loyalty programs, and tailoring experiences to different locations. The episode concludes with recommendations for Starbucks to lean into its loyalty program, expand it, and separate locations based on customer needs.Starbucks' Current Challenges

• Discussion of Starbucks' identity crisis and conflicting changes.
• Examples of recent policy shifts affecting customer experience.

Competitive Landscape

• Analysis of Starbucks' competitors like Dunkin', McDonald's, and local coffee shops.
• Examination of different approaches to coffee culture and customer experience.

Brand Loyalty and Customer Engagement

• Exploration of Starbucks' loyalty program and its growth.
• Discussion on balancing efficiency with community-building.

Cultural and Political Challenges

• Addressing the impact of political controversies on Starbucks' brand.
• Examination of cancel culture effects and potential recovery strategies.

Proposed Solutions

• Suggestion of a hybrid model: Starbucks Express and Starbucks Lounge.
• Ideas for leveraging data to improve customer experience and loyalty.

Efficiency vs. Community

• Balancing the need for quick service with maintaining a coffee house atmosphere.
• Strategies for differentiating experiences based on location and customer needs.

Loyalty Program Enhancement

• Proposals for gamifying the Starbucks app and loyalty program.
• Ideas for incentivizing desired customer behaviors.

Technological Integration

• Suggestions for using technology to streamline ordering and improve efficiency.
• Discussion of potential self-service options for high-traffic locations.

Brand Repositioning

• Strategies for reconnecting with core coffee culture roots.
• Balancing simplification with meeting diverse customer preferences.

Final Recommendations

• Emphasis on leveraging the loyalty program and expanding its reach.
• Call for Starbucks to implement Express and Lounge concepts.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the panel explores the impact of AI on SaaS, focusing on Microsoft's role at the intersection of these technologies.

Featuring guest Doron York, a venture capitalist, the discussion delves into AI's potential to enhance rather than replace SaaS, the challenges of integration, and the importance of building user trust. The conversation touches on AI as a utility, the future of subscription models, and the need for SaaS companies to evolve.

The panel debates the long-term implications of AI on jobs and human uniqueness, while considering how Microsoft and other tech giants can maintain their edge in an AI-driven landscape. The episode concludes with varying perspectives on whether SaaS is truly "dead" or simply evolving.

https://citysideventures.com/AI's Impact on SaaS Business Models

• Doron York discusses the hype around AI and its potential long-term effects on SaaS.
• Comparison to previous technological shifts like the Internet and blockchain.

Enhancing SaaS with AI Tools

• Melissa Eaton suggests AI tools will complement rather than replace traditional SaaS platforms.
• Discussion on the challenges of integrating AI into existing systems and overcoming resistance to change.

AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement

• Chino Nnadi emphasizes AI as a tool to enhance jobs, not replace them.
• The importance of building trust in AI-enhanced SaaS products.

Evolution of Software Development

• Aaron Wolpoff outlines three phases of software development, from boxed products to SaaS to AI-driven solutions.
• Consideration of how AI might decouple users from specific software brands.

Infrastructure Challenges for AI Integration

• Doron York compares AI integration challenges to those faced by the electric vehicle market.
• Discussion on the need for quantum computing to fully realize AI's potential.

AI's Role in Operational Efficiency

• Melissa Eaton highlights AI's potential to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.
• Examples of AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants in customer support.

Branding AI Integrations

• Discussion on how major SaaS companies are branding their AI integrations (e.g., Microsoft's Copilot, Salesforce's Einstein).

Future of SaaS and AI Coexistence

• Debate on whether SaaS is "dead" or evolving with AI integration.
• Consideration of usage-based models versus traditional subscriptions.

Building Trust and Transparency in AI-Enhanced SaaS

• Emphasis on the need for transparency in AI integration and user-centric design.
• Importance of balancing automation with human interaction.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome" the hosts tackle the complex issue of the TikTok ban in the United States.

Joined by guests Braeden Sorbo (TikTok influencer), Dylan Conroy (talent agent), and Sam Palazzolo (finance expert), they explore the multifaceted challenges facing the platform.

The discussion covers national security concerns, data privacy, content moderation, and the impact on creators and businesses. The panel debates potential solutions, including American ownership, algorithm transparency, and creator diversification across platforms.

While acknowledging the complexity of the situation, they offer insights on balancing free speech, user safety, and business interests in the evolving social media landscape. The episode highlights the far-reaching implications of TikTok's fate for creators, users, and the broader tech industry.

Braeden Sorbo TikTokDylan ConroySam Palazzolo (https://www.sampalazzolo.com/)

TikTok's Rise and Current Challenges

• Brief history of TikTok's evolution from Zhuyun to its current form
• Discussion of the recent 14-hour ban in the US and ongoing security concerns

Security and Data Privacy Concerns

• Sam Palazzolo emphasizes the importance of national and individual security
• Dylan Conroy draws parallels to other Chinese tech platforms like Deep Seek

Creator Economy and Monetization

• Braeden Sorbo shares insights on TikTok's creator fund and monetization challenges
• Dylan Conroy discusses the discrepancy in influencer rates between platforms

Platform Diversification for Creators

• Dylan Conroy advises creators to diversify across multiple platforms
• Importance of building sustainable business models independent of social platforms

Content Moderation and Algorithm Concerns

• Discussion on the impact of echo chambers and content manipulation
• Debate on the balance between free speech and responsible content curation

Business Implications of a Potential TikTok Ban

• Analysis of how businesses and influencers might adapt to a TikTok shutdown
• Exploration of alternative platforms and their readiness to fill the void

Social Commerce Integration

• Melissa Eaton inquires about TikTok's shopping integration compared to other platforms
• Dylan Conroy provides insights on YouTube Shop and emerging e-commerce trends in social media

Potential Solutions and Future Outlook

• Discussion on possible ownership changes and their implications
• Debate on who should potentially acquire TikTok's majority stake

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the panel tackles the issue of retail theft at Walgreens and other major retailers. They explore the effectiveness of current security measures like locking up products and their impact on customer experience and sales.

The discussion covers various aspects of the problem, including organized retail crime, employee theft, and the balance between preventing theft and maintaining convenience. The panel, joined by finance expert Jason Kraus, proposes solutions ranging from investing in technology like smart carts and predictive analytics to enhancing the in-store experience with customer service ambassadors.

They emphasize the importance of remembering Walgreens' core value of convenience while addressing security concerns, ultimately suggesting a multi-faceted approach to "fix" the issue.

Special Guest Jason Kraus: https://jasonkraus.me/

Retail Theft and Its Impact

• Melissa Eaton shares a personal experience in San Francisco.
• Overview of the projected cost of retail theft to companies by 2026.

Walgreens' History and Current Situation

• Brief history of Walgreens from its founding in 1901 to present day.
• Introduction of security measures like glass door cages in stores.

Customer Experience and Sales Impact

• Discussion on how security measures affect customer experience and impulse buying.
• Chino Nnadi shares contrasting experiences at Walgreens over the years.

Business Perspective on Retail Theft

• Breakdown of different categories of retail theft: shoplifting, organized retail crime, employee theft, and vendor fraud.
• Analysis of Walgreens' financial losses and store closure plans.

Technology vs. Human Approach

• Debate on investing in technology solutions versus increasing staff presence.
• Examples of successful loss prevention strategies from other retailers.

Startup Approach to Retail Challenges

• Jason Kraus discusses how startups might approach similar retail challenges.
• Exploration of innovative technologies like smart shopping carts and digital keys.

Community Responsibility and Profiling Concerns

• Discussion on the importance of addressing root causes of theft.
• Chino Nnadi raises concerns about racial profiling in loss prevention efforts.

Proposed Solutions

• Suggestions for improving customer experience while deterring theft.
• Ideas for leveraging technology, staff training, and store layout optimization.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the insurance crisis sparked by recent wildfires in California. They focus on State Farm's response, discussing the company's decision to stop selling new policies and non-renew existing ones in high-risk areas.

The conversation explores potential solutions, including government intervention, proactive customer education, and innovative use of technology. The hosts emphasize the need for insurance companies to balance risk management with their responsibility to policyholders. They propose ideas like partnering with hotels for emergency accommodation, using AI for risk assessment, and implementing a more transparent risk factor system for customers.

The episode concludes with suggestions for State Farm to rebuild trust and live up to its "good neighbor" brand promise in the face of increasing climate-related disasters.

Episode Focus: Insurance Crisis and State Farm

• Discussion centered on State Farm's response to natural disasters
• Emphasis on wildfires in California and hurricanes in the Carolinas

Impact of Natural Disasters on Insurance

• State Farm's decision to stop selling new home policies in California
• Non-renewal of policies for 72,000 homes and apartments
• Similar actions taken in North Carolina and South Carolina due to hurricane risks

Financial Toll and Industry Challenges

• 117,000 claims filed following Hurricane Helene
• Strain on catastrophe funds and reserves
• Growing crisis for homeowners and insurance companies

Brand Perception and Marketing Missteps

• Critique of State Farm's "Like a good neighbor" slogan in current context
• Discussion of ill-timed marketing during LA Rams game
• State Farm's decision to pull Super Bowl ads

Personal Experiences with Insurance Challenges

• Melissa Eaton shares insights from living in a high-risk area
• Difficulties in obtaining and maintaining insurance coverage

Government Intervention and Regulation

• California's new law preventing non-renewal of policies in affected areas
• Discussion on the need for government involvement in insurance crisis

Proactive Measures and Risk Mitigation

• Importance of educating customers about risk mitigation
• Suggestions for homeowners to fireproof homes and prepare for disasters

Technology and Data in Insurance

• Potential use of AI and predictive modeling in risk assessment
• Suggestions for real-time alerts and proactive communication with policyholders

Rebuilding Trust and Brand Reputation

• Ideas for State Farm to rebuild trust with customers
• Importance of transparency and proactive communication

Proposed Solutions

• Collaboration between insurance companies and government
• Development of user-friendly apps for risk assessment and communication
• Balancing marketing spend with investment in customer-centric solutions

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," the hosts tackle Meta's recent decision to eliminate its independent fact-checking organization. They explore the implications of this move, discussing the shift to community-driven content moderation and its potential impact on misinformation, user safety, and marginalized communities.

The conversation delves into Meta's corporate responsibility, the challenges of content moderation at scale, and the evolving role of social media platforms as news sources. The hosts debate the effectiveness of community notes, algorithmic moderation, and the need for critical thinking skills among users.

They also touch on the broader implications for online discourse, free speech, and the potential rise of specialized platforms in response to these changes.

Corporate Responsibility in Social Media

- Exploration of Meta's role and responsibility in managing information

- Discussion on the shift from third-party fact-checkers to community-driven moderation

Impact of Policy Changes

- Analysis of potential consequences on user experience and platform safety

- Concerns about the reduction of global perspectives in content moderation

Community-Driven Moderation

- Comparison to other platforms like Wikipedia and Google Maps

- Debate on the effectiveness of community notes in combating misinformation

Social Media as News Sources

- Reflection on how social platforms have become primary news sources for many

- Consideration of Meta's position as a tech company vs. a news organization

Protecting Marginalized Communities

- Discussion on safeguards for vulnerable groups against online harassment and misinformation

- Concerns about the impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts

Algorithmic Moderation and User Experience

- Suggestions for enhancing algorithmic moderation to provide balanced viewpoints

- Ideas for reminding users about fact-checking and critical thinking

Business Decisions and Political Implications

- Analysis of potential motivations behind Meta's policy changes

- Speculation on the influence of the political climate on these decisions

Future of Social Media Platforms

- Predictions about user behavior and potential exodus to specialized platforms

- Discussion on the evolution of social media and its role in society

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the hosts tackle the unexpected bankruptcy and closure of Party City, exploring the broader challenges facing malls and retail centers. 

They discuss the viability of specialty retailers maintaining large physical footprints and propose innovative solutions to revitalize the struggling party supply chain. The conversation delves into the importance of creating experiential retail spaces, leveraging partnerships, and adapting to changing consumer behaviors. 

The hosts also address the human impact of sudden store closures and offer insights on how other specialty stores can learn from Party City's downfall. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the need for retailers to curate experiences, embrace local community elements, and diversify revenue streams to remain relevant in the evolving retail landscape.

Retail Challenges and Evolution

• Examination of challenges facing specialty retailers and malls.
• Exploration of the viability of large retail footprints for companies like Party City.

Customer Experience and Brand Relevance

• Melissa Eaton shares a personal story about her daughter's collaboration with Party City.
• Importance of staying relevant and competitive in the party supply market.

Operational Opportunities and Adaptation

• Analysis of successful retail transformations, like Barnes & Noble.
• Discussion on reimagining retail spaces for experiential shopping.

Party City's History and Decline

• Overview of Party City's founding, growth, and recent financial struggles.
• Examination of factors leading to bankruptcy, including debt and changing consumer behaviors.

Human Impact of Business Closures

• Chino Nnadi addresses the timing and approach of Party City's closure announcement.
• Discussion on the ethical considerations of layoffs and their impact on employees.

Reimagining Retail Spaces

• Exploration of potential new uses for large retail spaces.
• Ideas for transforming Party City into an experiential venue or event space.

Competition and Market Adaptation

• Analysis of competitors like Spirit Halloween and their business model.
• Discussion on the importance of understanding and adapting to changing consumer needs.

Community Impact of Retail Closures

• Examination of the broader effects of store closures on local communities and malls.
• Discussion on the role of retail spaces in creating community connections.

Future of Specialty Retail

• Proposals for how specialty retailers can survive and thrive.
• Emphasis on creating unique experiences and embracing local community aspects.

Lessons for Other Retailers

• Key takeaways from Party City's situation for other specialty stores.
• Importance of innovation, customer experience, and adaptability in retail.

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome" the hosts explore the phenomenon of CEOs who fail upward, examining high-profile cases like Adam Neumann of WeWork, Billy McFarland of Fyre Festival, and Travis Kalanick of Uber.

The panel discusses the systemic issues that allow these leaders to continue ascending despite public failures, delving into the role of charisma, cultural intelligence, and the importance of surrounding oneself with expert teams. They debate the fine line between visionary leadership and unchecked ego, and consider the accountability of boards and investors.

The conversation touches on the American obsession with singular genius entrepreneurs and the cultural factors that contribute to this trend. Ultimately, the hosts propose a checklist of red flags to help identify and mitigate risks associated with charismatic but potentially problematic leaders.

Systematic Issues Allowing Failed Leaders to Ascend

• Examination of factors that enable CEOs to continue failing yet rising in their careers
• Panel members share personal experiences with such CEOs

Charisma and Vision vs. Accountability

• The fine line between audacity and bluffing in leadership
• The role of charisma and storytelling in CEO success

Oversight and Board Responsibility

• Lack of technical expertise on boards of companies like Theranos
• The importance of diverse, qualified board members for proper oversight

Cultural and Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

• Discussion of how high cultural and emotional intelligence can mask incompetence
• The difference between snake oil salesmen and visionaries with poor execution

The Need for Visionary Leaders

• The importance of bold, innovative thinkers in driving progress
• Balancing visionary thinking with accountability and effective leadership

Building Effective Teams Around Visionary Leaders

• Comparison of leaders like Elon Musk to failed CEOs
• The crucial role of surrounding visionaries with competent experts

Startup Culture and Founder Dynamics

• How startup culture can enable unchecked power for founders
• The challenges of transitioning from founder to effective CEO

Investor Responsibility and Due Diligence

• The role of venture capitalists in enabling risky behavior
• The need for more thorough vetting and accountability in investments

Fixing the System: Identifying Red Flags

• Discussion of ways to spot potentially problematic leaders
• The importance of cultural fit and risk appetite in hiring CEOs

Balancing Innovation and Responsible Leadership

• The challenge of fostering innovation while maintaining accountability
• Cultural differences in approaches to CEO leadership and accountability

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the panel tackles Netflix's foray into live streaming events.

They discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by this strategic shift, including technical hurdles, potential pricing models, and the impact on Netflix's brand ethos.

The conversation covers the financial implications, customer expectations, and the need for operational excellence in delivering live content. The panel explores ideas like tiered subscriptions, microtransactions, and expanding into diverse live programming.

They ultimately conclude that while there are significant obstacles to overcome, live events could be a valuable addition to Netflix's offerings, potentially driving subscriber growth and engagement in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape.Netflix's Strategic Shifts

• Analysis of Netflix's pivot to streaming and content production
• Exploration of the company's move into live events

Technical Challenges of Live Streaming

• Examination of Netflix's infrastructure and content delivery network
• Discussion of bandwidth and scaling issues for live events

Financial Considerations

• Peter Braunz's insights on Netflix's financial performance and valuation
• Analysis of the costs associated with live events and potential returns

Customer Experience and Expectations

• Debate on the alignment of live events with Netflix's core value proposition
• Consideration of customer expectations and potential friction points

Monetization Strategies

• Exploration of subscription models and potential micro-transactions
• Discussion on maintaining Netflix's ethos while introducing new revenue streams

Talent and Technical Capabilities

• Suggestions for Netflix to acquire necessary talent for live streaming
• Emphasis on the need for scalable infrastructure and real-time monitoring

Future of Live Programming on Netflix

• Speculation on potential types of live content beyond major events
• Discussion of international markets and diverse content offerings

Pricing Strategies and Subscriber Tiers

• Debate on introducing new subscription tiers or pay-per-view options
• Consideration of pricing strategies for different types of live content

Conclusion and Recommendations

• Group consensus on Netflix continuing to explore live streaming
• Emphasis on overcoming technical challenges and strategic implementation

__________________

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "We Fixed It. You're Welcome," the panel tackles the complex issue of corporate holiday parties, using USAA as a case study. The discussion explores the evolving nature of workplace celebrations, generational differences in employee expectations, and the delicate balance between employee appreciation and financial responsibility.

The panel, consisting of HR, finance, and marketing experts, delves into the ROI of lavish parties, the impact on company culture, and potential alternatives to traditional celebrations. They address the challenges of inclusivity, the risks associated with holiday gatherings, and the importance of aligning celebrations with overall business health.

The conversation concludes with practical suggestions for companies planning holiday events, emphasizing flexibility, employee input, and thoughtful consideration of diverse needs and preferences.USAA Bank Discussion

• Focus on USAA Bank's holiday party practices.
• Melissa shares insights about USAA's significance in San Antonio.

Holiday Party Perspectives

• Debate on the value and purpose of corporate holiday parties.
• Discussion of generational differences in holiday party appreciation.

USAA's Holiday Party Extravaganza

• Hiring of high-profile entertainment acts like Zach Brown Band.
• Exploration of the costs and benefits of lavish holiday celebrations.

Employee Expectations and Preferences

• Analysis of employee preferences for bonuses vs. holiday parties.
• Examination of differing expectations between on-site and remote workers.

Brand and Cultural Implications

• Discussion on how holiday parties reflect company culture and brand.
• Consideration of potential misalignment between party extravagance and company performance.

Retention and Recruitment Impacts

• Exploration of how holiday parties influence employee retention and recruitment.
• Debate on the long-term effects of setting high expectations for celebrations.

Balancing Act: Celebration vs. Business Realities

• Discussion on aligning holiday celebrations with overall business health.
• Consideration of potential negative impacts of lavish parties during challenging times.

Recommendations for Corporate Holiday Celebrations

• Suggestions for incorporating multi-generational feedback.
• Ideas for offering flexibility and inclusivity in holiday celebrations.
• Discussion on the pros and cons of including plus-ones at company events.

Conclusion and Self-Assessment

• Panelists evaluate whether they "fixed" the issue of lavish holiday parties.
• Acknowledgment of USAA's success and employee satisfaction.

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the debut episode of "We Fixed It, You're Welcome," host Aaron Wolpoff and his panel of experts, Chino Nnadi, Melissa Eaton, and Peter Braunz, tackle the challenges facing Spirit Airlines.

They explore Spirit's recent Chapter 11 filing and its implications. The discussion covers Spirit's history, its ultra-low-cost model, and the potential for rebranding and restructuring.

The panel debates the viability of Spirit's new four-tier pricing strategy and the importance of building a community-focused brand. The team offers creative ideas for Spirit's path forward, emphasizing the need for a strong cultural and customer-centric approach.

Spirit Airlines: A Brief History and Current Challenges

• Aaron provides a historical overview of Spirit Airlines, highlighting its evolution from Clippert Trucking Company to its current brand.
• Discussion of Spirit's financial struggles, including its Chapter 11 filing and failed merger attempts with Frontier and JetBlue.

Panel Discussion: Spirit Airlines' Current State

• Peter Braunz discusses the impact of macroeconomic forces on Spirit's ultra-low-cost model and the challenges of oversaturation in the airline market.
• Melissa Eaton questions Spirit's long-term financial sustainability and potential merger opportunities.
• Chino Nnadi emphasizes the importance of rebranding and customer experience in Spirit's recovery strategy.

Rebranding and Marketing Strategies

• Melissa suggests Spirit could lean into its budget reputation with viral marketing, embracing its identity with humor and transparency.
• Aaron proposes building a community around Spirit's frugal brand, creating a sense of belonging among like-minded travelers.

Employee Engagement and Retention

• Chino highlights the need for Spirit to focus on employee retention and morale amidst financial uncertainty.
• Melissa and Chino discuss creative ways to engage employees, such as tiered incentives and fostering a supportive work culture.

Exploring Spirit's New Pricing Model

• Peter outlines Spirit's new four-tier pricing structure, from the basic "Go" level to the premium "Go Big" experience.
• The panel debates the effectiveness of this strategy in attracting customers and competing with other airlines.

Final Thoughts and Potential Solutions

• The panel agrees that while they haven't fully "fixed" Spirit, they offer valuable insights and strategies for the airline's recovery.
• Suggestions include focusing on customer experience, leveraging community building, and exploring creative marketing tactics.

Disclaimer:

A quick disclaimer. We are going into this somewhat cold and nothing we say should be construed as legal advice, financial advice or anything that would get us in trouble. These are our views and opinions. We're here to ask the kinds of questions everyone's thinking. Have an engaging conversation and maybe come to some conclusions that we feel are worth exploring.

By the end, if we fixed it, you're welcome. All trademarks, IP and brand elements discussed are property of their respective owners.

Music by Milo W.Produced by Straight Forward Media Group

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Armchair quarterbacking isn’t just for sports anymore. We’re taking the same approach to companies: what would you do in their shoes? 

Each episode, our lively panel will debate a new issue ripped from the headlines involving a different well-known company. Between our instincts, experiences, and unsolicited opinions, we may just come up with gold. 

At the end, we’ll critique ourselves and see how we did. 

If we fixed it, you’re welcome!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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