When War Speeds the Clock: How Conflict Accelerates Technological Change

What do World War I button shortages, carriage makers, coal furnaces, and today’s AI boom all have in common? More than you think. In this episode of The Personal Wealth Coach, Jake McClure takes listeners on a surprisingly entertaining tour through history to show how war, scarcity, and crisis push technology forward faster than anyone expects. From freshwater clams vanishing because divers left to make munitions, to blacksmiths becoming auto mechanics, to coal quietly disappearing from American basements, this episode connects forgotten headlines to the economic shifts happening right now. Along the way, Jake explores why governments struggle to stop technological change, how entire industries either adapt or vanish, and why losing old skills like cursive writing or manual transmissions feels emotional even when the new tools make more sense. The conversation loops effortlessly from the Model T to heat pumps, from Studebaker to modern private equity, and from coal bins to calculators. If you enjoy big-picture thinking, historical parallels, and practical insight into how disruption really works, this episode will change how you look at today’s economy and maybe how you prepare for what comes next. This episode was recorded on April 2, 2026. If you would like to contact us, please send an email to us at advisingteam@tpwc.com. We are happy to address any of your questions about Economics and Finance. If you are ready and would like to book an appointment either in office or over the phone, you can also send a message to us through the contact form on our website TPWC.com. ** The information provided in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. We are “The Personal Wealth Coach,” which is also the name of an SEC-registered investment advisory firm. However, being registered with the SEC does not authorize us to provide investment advice. Investment advice should be personalized, offered in a private setting, and be in the best interests of the individual as a fiduciary. If we make any fraudulent statements, you should report them to the SEC. The information presented in this educational episode has been obtained from sources that we deem to be reliable, but we make no warranty or guarantee as to the completeness or accuracy of said information.