We Fixed It, You're Welcome

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 be

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 exp

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 reacti

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 ins

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 seatin

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 re

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

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

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

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

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 re

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 turnar

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

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

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

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 instr

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, restauran

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 it

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. 📌 Topi

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 e

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

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, Pepsi

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 somet

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

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 workfor

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 ambiguo

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 cultura

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 viewpoi

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 legac

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 Ti

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:

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: • Th

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 it

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, YouTu

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 Di

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

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

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

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. 📌 Topi

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

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 e

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 accommoda

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 impor

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, th

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 feedbac

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 compan

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 t

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 unche

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 Starbuck

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 behavi