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We Fixed It. You're Welcome.

We Fixed It. You're Welcome.

Gamut Podcast Network · Rhapsody Voices

81 episodesEN

Show overview

We Fixed It. You're Welcome. has been publishing since 2024, and across the 2 years since has built a catalogue of 81 episodes, alongside 1 trailer or bonus episode. That works out to roughly 65 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence, with the show now in its 3rd season.

Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 42 min and 52 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Business show.

The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 1 weeks ago, with 25 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2025, with 52 episodes published. Published by Rhapsody Voices.

Episodes
81
Running
2024–2026 · 2y
Median length
46 min
Cadence
Weekly

From the publisher

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! Season 3 launches January 20, 2026. Subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss a single episode!

Latest Episodes

View all 81 episodes

Is Prime Day a Real Holiday Now?

Jun 23, 20261h 1m

Brand Collabs: Overplayed or Worth the Hype?

Jun 16, 202655 min

Unraveling High Fashion

Jun 9, 202658 min

Bullish on Bagels? Figuring Out Food Fads

Jun 2, 202652 min

Predicting Kalshi’s Future

May 26, 20261h 0m

7-Eleven’s Egg Salad Experiment

May 19, 202649 min

Spirit Airlines Out of Runway: What Happens From Here?

May 12, 202653 min

Napster’s Confusing Comeback

May 6, 202651 min

Allbirds’ AI Reboot: Bold Leap or Giant Misstep

Apr 28, 20261h 3m

Replay: Lego’s Grown Up Gamble

Apr 21, 202646 min

Replay: Southwest’s LUV Lost

Apr 14, 202658 min

S3 Ep 12Are There Too Many Managers?

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 againKey Insight from Ron HetrickOne 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 HetrickRon 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 HighlightsSome 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 advancementOur 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/wefixeditpodLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpodYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Apr 7, 202648 min

S3 Ep 11Is Outer Space for Everyone?

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 EpisodeWhy space is no longer just for astronauts and governmentsHow private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are accelerating the push for space travelThe legal reality behind the Outer Space Treaty and ownership in spaceThe economics of space tourism and why costs are still highHow satellites already power GPS, banking, communications, and security systemsWhether governments or private companies should lead the next phase of explorationAbout Christopher HearseyChristopher 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 PanelAaron Wolpoff – Host and Marketing panelistMelissa Eaton – Operations and C/X panelist Chino Nnadi – People, Talent and Culture panelistChristopher Hearsey - Guest and global space executiveSubscribe 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/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Mar 31, 202641 min

S3 Ep 10Can Target Hit the Bullseye Again?

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 TakeawaysDiscounts increase traffic temporarily but do not rebuild loyalty aloneTarget risks losing differentiation if it competes purely on priceBrand trust requires transparency and consistencyEmployees and customers both need clarity on the company’s directionA strong narrative must support any pricing strategyOur PanelAaron Wolpoff – Host and Marketing panelistMelissa Eaton – Operations and C/X panelist Chino Nnadi – People, Talent and Culture panelistSubscribe 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/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Mar 24, 202659 min

S3 Ep 9Hired or Hustled? Avoiding Job Search Predators

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 BackgroundMelissa Eaton – Panelist / Operations & CX BackgroundChino Nnadi – Panelist / People, Culture & Corporate Recruitment Background, founder of Like Cappuccino recruitment agencyKey TakeawaysMost 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/wefixeditpodLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpodYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Mar 17, 202659 min

S3 Ep 8Southwest’s LUV Lost

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 Cover1️⃣ The Core Problem: Financial Success vs Brand EquitySouthwest reported record revenue, yet load factors are decliningLoyal flyers publicly declaring they are leavingThe emotional equity of “We’re all in this together” is erodingThe danger of extracting more revenue per customer while shrinking the customer baseRene explains how this mirrors classic Wall Street optimization: maximize short-term revenue, risk long-term brand health.2️⃣ The Boarding Royale BackfireSouthwest’s Super Bowl ad mocked its former open seating model.Instead of feeling like a self-aware evolution, customers felt:BelittledGaslitReduced to the punchlineRene breaks down why making your most loyal customers the joke is a strategic miscalculation.3️⃣ Hierarchy Changes BehaviorReferencing research from Harvard Business School and the University of Toronto, Rene highlights how:Class distinctions increase conflictIntroducing hierarchy shifts employee roles from hosts to refereesSouthwest’s once-democratic seating model helped create communityWhen tiered seating and baggage fees entered the picture, the cultural dynamic shifted.4️⃣ Internal Culture RiskSouthwest’s frontline employees have historically been its greatest asset:HumorWarmthHuman connectionBut 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 StrategyModeled after Qantas and Jetstar:Preserve Southwest as a high-trust, economy-focused domestic brandLaunch a separate premium or long-haul sub-brandProtect the emotional equity instead of diluting itOther ideas discussed:Restore fee transparencyRecommit to “Bags Fly Free”Monetize passenger engagement through paid brand research partnershipsRe-empower employees as ambassadors rather than enforcersSubscribe for more deep dives where we fix big business problems with fresh perspectives.Rene Huey-Liptonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hueylipton/• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com• Follow us on:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpodLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpodYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Mar 10, 202650 min

S3 Ep 7The Reese’s Controversy with Brad Reese

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 chocolateSome now use “chocolate candy,” “chocolatey coating,” or compound coatingPeanut butter replaced in some products with “peanut butter creme”Ingredient changes implemented quietly, without announcementWhile 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 Reesehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bradreesecom/• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com• Follow us on:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpodLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpodYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Mar 3, 20261h 7m

S3 Ep 6The Tipflation Trap – Who Eats the Cost?

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 TakeawaysFor Consumers:● Consider tipping after service is complete● Speak with management before leaving damaging reviews● Recognize tipping is tied to systemic wage structuresFor 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 trustThe “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 collaborationThere is no overnight solution. But thoughtful policy adjustments, communication, and empathy between operators, staff, and customers may reduce friction.Guest SpotlightMark MoellerFounder, The Recipe of Success National restaurant consulting firm specializing in operations, training, and financial analysisWebsite: recipeofsuccess.comEnjoyed 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 Moellerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/therecipeofsuccess/Mark's website: https://recipeofsuccess.com• Website – www.wefixeditpod.com• Follow us on:Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wefixeditpodLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpodYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Feb 24, 202650 min

S3 Ep 5The Automation Irony: Why Are We Still Working So Hard?

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 GuestSteve 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.comKey Topics & TakeawaysWhy automation isn’t a tech problem — it’s an operations problemAI sprawl and shadow AI inside organizationsThe danger of implementing tools without governance or guardrailsWhy efficiency gains often lead to raised quotas, not reduced workloadThe “walled garden trap” and siloed automation effortsHow automation quietly shifts burden upstream and creates hidden burnoutWhy layoffs blamed on AI increase fear and stall adoptionThe cultural gap between automation promise and employee experienceThe need for executive alignment before tool selectionWhy adoption requires enablement, not just software licensesThe Core InsightAutomation 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 Proposed1️⃣ Start with Operations, Not SoftwareAI should solve clearly defined operational friction, not chase trends. Diagnose before you deploy.2️⃣ Build Governance EarlyCreate 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 TimeHard-code reclaimed hours into the operating model.Allocate portions to:InnovationUpskillingStrategic thinkingReduced workload5️⃣ Redefine ProductivityMore output is not always better output.Innovation, morale, and long-term sustainability matter.6️⃣ Treat AI Like a New ColleagueOnboard it. Train around it. Clarify when human judgment overrides automation.7️⃣ Keep Humans in the LoopAI lacks empathy, emotional intelligence, and true reasoning.The human element remains essential.Who This Episode Is ForExecutives implementing AI initiativesHR and People & Culture leadersFounders and startup operatorsTechnology and operations leadersAnyone feeling busier despite automationThe Big Question This Episode AnswersIs automation actually freeing us, or are we just running faster on the same wheel?Final TakeAutomation 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/wefixeditpodLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpodYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Feb 17, 202657 min

S3 Ep 4Super Bowl Commercials – Do They Really Work?

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 & TakeawaysWhy Super Bowl ads now cost 2–3× more than a decade agoThe difference between awareness, engagement, and actual business impactWhen Super Bowl ads amplify strength vs expose weaknessWhy creative misalignment can erase millions in valueThe danger of confusing celebrity recognition with brand recallHow layoffs, market timing, and internal morale affect ad perceptionWhy some brands win with one ad and others disappear entirelyThe rise of AI, health, and fintech themes in this year’s gameHow pre-game leaks and post-game amplification now matter as much as game nightStrategic Frameworks DiscussedReadiness Test: If your operations can’t handle the spike, don’t buy the spotLifecycle Fit: Super Bowl ads work best at inflection points, not desperation momentsCreative Discipline: Entertainment alone is not strategyBefore / During / After: The ad is the spark, not the fireInternal Alignment: Employees must understand the “why,” not just see the spendCultural Context: Tone matters as much as messageWho This Episode Is ForCMOs and brand leadersMarketing and communications executivesAgency strategists and creativesFounders considering big-budget awareness playsAnyone curious why some Super Bowl ads become legendary and others become memesThe Big Question This Episode AnswersIs a Super Bowl commercial a smart investment or a very expensive ego play?Final TakeSuper 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 PanelAaron WolpoffMelissa EatonChino NnadiAnaka Kobzev (Special Guest)Anaka's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anakakobzev/Bonus After-Show Panel(Post-game analysis only)Aaron WolpoffMelissa EatonAnaka 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/wefixeditpodLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/wefixeditpodYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@WeFixedItPodIf 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.DisclaimerA 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.

Feb 10, 20261h 35m
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