Carolyn Freund, an expert in trade and economics, and Zoe Chase, a reporter who uncovered the impacts of sugar protectionism, dive into the complexities of trade barriers. They discuss how tariffs, while popular, often lead to unintended consequences that can hurt American industries. The conversation highlights the sweet irony of sugar tariffs affecting candy makers and explores the tangled web of protectionism in auto regulations across the U.S. and Europe. Their insights reveal how well-intentioned policies can raise costs for consumers and challenge global competitiveness.