21 Hats Podcast Do You Have the Stomach for This? 2025 in Review, Part 1
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Dec 23, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Paul Downs reflects on tough staffing decisions during a sales drop, emphasizing the importance of empathetic layoff communications. Liz Piccarazzi shares her journey through tariff changes while seeking U.S. manufacturing options for her products. David Barnett offers insights into business valuation, stressing the idea that a company can hold more value for its owner than for potential buyers. Kate Morgan highlights the pitfalls of underpricing in recruiting, sparking a debate about sustainable pricing strategies.
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Explain The Numbers And Timeline
- Use transparent presentations with numbers to explain layoffs to staff and set clear timelines for communication.
- Send firm written notices and invite affected employees back if reopening is possible to preserve relationships.
Tariff Turmoil Forced Supply Changes
- Liz Piccarazzi described navigating wildly shifting tariffs and moving production from China to Vietnam to avoid extreme duties.
- She’s now actively exploring U.S. fabricators after tariff instability prompted hands-on outreach and NDAs.
Use AI To Surface CEO Blind Spots
- Ask AI tools deliberately for weaknesses to get honest blind-spot feedback instead of praise.
- Use follow-up prompts to turn blind spots into prioritized fixes and action plans.