Crash and Build

India Thakar
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  • BUSINESS
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Since the dawn of time, businesses have faced cycles of growth and decline. Success leads to prosperity until economic shifts, consumer preferences, or poor decisions, decide otherwise. In short – they crash, and build. (And probably crash again). This podcast narrates stories of businesses, innovations, trends, and societal issues experiencing the Crash and Build cycle. Hosted by Wei-Chung Wang, an economics professor and software start-up co-founder, and India Thakar, a digital designer and marketer, they cover topics from business and economics to tech and marketing, and more.

Episodes

  1. 11/28/2024

    Global Tariffs during Trump's Second Presidency

    In this episode of Crash and Build, hosts India Thakar and Wei-Chung Wang explore the changing landscape of global trade. They challenge the old belief that trade is about finding the cheapest labor, introducing the idea of "Trade Reality 2.0" where politics, economics, and business collide in new and unexpected ways. With Trump entering the presidential office this January, there has been many predictions made on the extensive global tariffs he plans to initiate, which poses challenges for many manufacturing businesses. Companies already today are competing against entire global ecosystems, how will the manufacturing landscape change? Together, they discuss how businesses are adapting to new challenges by embracing innovation, speed, and flexibility—redefining what it means to stay competitive in a rapidly changing world.

    39 min

  2. 10/10/2024

    Unemployment: Is it as bad as everyone thinks?

    In episode 8 of "Crash and Build," hosts Wei-Chung Wang and India dive into the complexities of unemployment in the tech industry. They discuss how official statistics often overlook the nuances of cyclical, structural, and frictional unemployment, particularly in a rapidly evolving field. The duo emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptability for tech workers, especially with the rise of AI and automation. They explore strategies for success, such as developing a "T-shaped" skill set, and embracing diverse experiences. There is a difference made between one's "Personal Brand" and one's "Professional Identity." Today, especially with social media reigning as king, individuals have used various platforms to showcase theirselves as a brand through various interests and passions. This has helped individuals develop a more diverse skillset. As they wrap up, Wei-Chung encourages listeners to stay curious and actively shape their careers in tech. Tune in for insights on navigating today’s tech landscape!

    45 min

  3. 09/09/2024

    The Evolution of SaaS: Gearing Up for SaaStr 2024

    Welcome to another episode of Crash and Build! This week, hosts India and Wei-Chung are gearing up for SaaStr 2024, the premier tech conference for SaaS enthusiasts in Silicon Valley. In this episode, they dive deep into the evolving landscape of Software as a Service in 2024. First up, they’ll unravel the latest shifts in SaaS business models, from usage-based pricing to product-led growth, and what these changes mean for the future of software consumption. Next, they’ll explore the transformative role of AI in SaaS, examining how it’s reshaping the industry with new opportunities and challenges. Finally, they’ll confront the impact of economic uncertainty on SaaS growth and discuss how companies are adapting their strategies in a tighter budget climate. Tune in to Crash and Build to get an insider’s perspective on the state of SaaS and what’s next for this dynamic sector!

    38 min

  4. 07/17/2024

    The Job Market: Is it really as bad as it seems? Your job and your passion are not mutually exclusive.

    On this episode, India and Wei-Chung debunk the rumor that everyone in the US keeps hearing: "The Job Market is horrible." Learn the reasonings behind why everyone seems to think it is harder to get a job than it actually is, and discover practical strategies individuals can employ to enhance their job search success and secure positions aligned with their aspirations. India and Wei-Chung then discuss the idea of the "dream job," why we force ourselves into jobs that bring us no joy for capital gain, and how Gen-Z is utilizing social media to capitalize on their passions. Finally, the hosts emphasize a transformative idea: that one's career and passion need not be separate. They illustrate how everyone possesses the capability to monetize their skills, talents, and passions, thereby crafting a fulfilling livelihood in pursuit of happiness.

    49 min

  5. 06/15/2024

    ESG, the acronym businesses adore. Why is it important and more than just a name-drop?

    In the fourth episode of Crash & Build, hosts India and Wei-Chung discuss the often too-familar term, “ESG.” Although most people have heard the term ESG used, many still do not know the true meaning of the acronym, or the significance behind each of the letters.  Wei-Chung and India start by delving into the stigma behind the term, especially the use of the term over the last 3 years in marketing campaigns, as well as company’s annual reports.They clarify ESG's role in producing profit, exposing trends such as "greenwashing" where companies superficially adopt ESG without genuine commitment. The episode explores how technological advancements, including AI, paradoxically impact the environment, underscoring the need for balanced progress and sustainability. They also discuss why Gen-Z prioritizes environmental and social issues, driving a shift towards responsible corporate practices. Businesses, of course, should consider this market of consumers when making business decisions.  For this reason, India and Wei-Chung stress the urgency for businesses to embed ESG principles into their long-term strategies, advocating for real changes, such as reducing carbon emissions and championing social rights in leadership. Meaningful action, rather than token gestures and marketing schemes is key to both corporate success and societal well-being. Tune in to learn how we can navigate the ESG landscape, to create a future where business thrives in harmony with the planet and its people.

    44 min

  6. 06/03/2024

    Branding is Big: Going Beyond the Logo

    In the third episode of Crash & Build's debut season, hosts India and Wei-Chung delve into the captivating world of branding. They explore how branding serves as a pivotal force, reshaping consumers' perceptions of companies. Through insightful discussions, they dissect successful brand campaigns of industry giants like Coca-Cola and BMW, unraveling the secrets behind their enduring appeal. Venturing into the realm of international marketing, the hosts spotlight brands like Starbucks and McDonald's, showcasing how they've effectively adapted their identities across borders. Yet, not all branding endeavors are smooth sailing. Listeners are treated to a cautionary tale of a branding fiasco, offering valuable lessons in navigating the delicate art of brand management. The podcast takes a closer look at brand transformations, spotlighting Kia's remarkable journey to newfound success. Moreover, the hosts tackle the growing significance of sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) values in branding, drawing comparisons between brands like Zara, H&M, and Patagonia. Rounding off the episode, India and Wei-Chung offer practical insights into the foundational elements of brand creation, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools to craft compelling brand narratives from the ground up. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of branding's power to shape the modern business landscape.

    50 min

  7. 05/24/2024

    Business in Asia, or Asia in Business? How Asia’s Influence on International Business is Inseparable.

    In the second podcast episode of Crash and Build Wei-Chung and India celebrate Asian American Heritage month with an AAPI special! Wei-Chung and India begin this episode by discussing their own backgrounds and experiences as Asian Americans, and what their identities mean to them.  The episode takes a historical turn as Wei-Chung traces the evolution of business in Asia, particularly focusing on China's pivotal role in international trade with the West. This exploration sheds light on the interconnectedness of global economies, and the enduring impact of Asian commerce on the world stage. Shifting gears, Wei-Chung and India engage in a discussion about the cultural nuances of doing business in Asian countries, drawing from their own experiences in Taiwan, and comparing them with practices in the United States. This segment underscores the importance of cultural competency in navigating diverse business environments, and fostering successful collaborations across borders. As the podcast draws to a close, Wei-Chung and India emphasize the value of embracing diverse perspectives, both in business and in life. They advocate for an open-minded approach to understanding people different from yourself, and the richness that comes from engaging with global diversity. In this insightful episode, "Crash and Build" celebrates Asian American heritage while also offering thought-provoking insights into the intersection of business, culture, and identity in today's interconnected world.

    42 min

  8. 05/20/2024

    AI and Tech: What does it Mean for Our World?

    Welcome to the first episode of Crash and Build! In this episode, Wei-Chung and India talk about what’s been on everyone’s minds: Artificial Technology. Specifically titled,  "AI and Tech: What Does it Mean for Our World," this episode overviews the pros and cons of artificial intelligence, questions whether we can actually be better people with AI at our fingertips. Wei-Chung and India start their conversation by taking a trip to Silicon Valley, discussing the tech hub’s “hustle culture,” and how it has initiated the digital age. Wei-Chung explains how AI is not necessarily new, at all, and how the machines created during the industrial revolution were seen as a far worse threat to human progress.   All-in-all, this episode questions whether doctor bots can be trusted with your care, if AI development should be regulated, if any new art will be true art, and if we should be able to know what God looks like.   Through their exchange, Wei-Chung and India prompt listeners to reflect on the profound implications of AI on society, leaving them with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding technology's role in shaping our world.

    55 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

Since the dawn of time, businesses have faced cycles of growth and decline. Success leads to prosperity until economic shifts, consumer preferences, or poor decisions, decide otherwise. In short – they crash, and build. (And probably crash again). This podcast narrates stories of businesses, innovations, trends, and societal issues experiencing the Crash and Build cycle. Hosted by Wei-Chung Wang, an economics professor and software start-up co-founder, and India Thakar, a digital designer and marketer, they cover topics from business and economics to tech and marketing, and more.

Information

  • Creator
    India Thakar
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © India Thakar
  • Show Website
    Crash and Build