Of Course You Realize, This Means (trade) War!

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss the ongoing trade war and its implications for corporate communication and strategy. They explore how companies are navigating economic uncertainty, the role of consumer sentiment and nationalism, and the importance of adapting to local markets. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to focus on capacity over capital and to develop strategies that foster deep, authentic relationships with consumers amidst the chaos of the trade war.TakeawaysHigh stakes bets are being made by companies to navigate uncertainty.The importance of capacity over capital is highlighted in crisis management.Tariffs are not just economic tools; they test corporate resilience.The buy Canadian movement reflects changing consumer behaviors.Topics Mentionedtrade war, corporate communication, economic uncertainty, nationalism, brand loyalty, tariffs, consumer sentiment, business strategy, capacity, VUCACompanies MentionedFord, General Motors, Stellantis, SpaceX, Target, Best Buy, Hasbro, McDonald's, Toyota, BMWChapters00:00 Introduction to the Trade War Dynamics03:00 Strategies for Navigating Economic Uncertainty05:51 The Role of Corporate Communication in Trade Wars09:12 Consumer Sentiment and Nationalism12:07 Adapting to Local Markets and Brand Loyalty14:58 The Importance of Capacity Over Capital18:11 VUCA: Navigating Chaos in Business24:49 Conclusion and Future Outlook