Short Story
If you have ever sat in a meeting and known, really known, that the way we are doing this isn’t working anymore, this book is for you.
If you have watched the headlines and felt the ground shifting under a system you built your career on, this book is for you.
If you believe, as I do, that trade is not just about tariffs, it is about humans, and trust, and showing up, then this book is for you.
Every great empire lasts about 250 years. We do not have to be the generation that watches this one fall.
Secure your early copy
Broken Bridges: Building a Better Future through Sustainable Global Trade
WHY THIS / WHY ME / WHY NOW
I was on a seven-hour flight home when it hit me.
The distributor I’d just met spoke perfect English. He knew our President, our Cabinet, our geography, our sports teams, our politics. He could hold a conversation about any American state or issue without missing a beat.
I thought about how many Americans could do the same for his country.
That moment crystallised forty years of unease into one clear thought: we are falling behind, and we don’t even know it.
I have spent four decades crossing borders — not in boardrooms or Zoom Meetings, but in the trenches. Sitting across tables from retailers and distributors in over 90 countries. Building relationships, learning cultures, earning trust the hard way. I watched America go from a country the world rolled out the red carpet for, to one the world is now quietly bypassing. The tariffs are not the problem. They are the symptom.
The problem is that we stopped seeing trade as a human endeavour — and started treating it as a war.
When an economy collapses, it is not the billionaires who feel it first. It is the family that cannot afford groceries. It is the small business owner who loses their supplier overnight. It is the kid who graduates into a country with nothing left to offer them.
Broken Bridges is the book I had to write. Not because I am an economist, a politician, or a historian — but because I have lived this. And I believe, deeply, that we can build something better.
WHAT THIS BOOK DOES
This book helps you go from reactive and overwhelmed by the chaos of global trade, to equipped with the mindset, relationships, and long-term strategy to thrive in it.
- From watching trade policy destroy your supply chain → to understanding it well enough to build around it
- From transactional, short-term international relationships → to genuine, durable global partnerships
- From culture-blind business development → to a high cultural intelligence that opens doors others can’t
- From Zoom-fatigued and disconnected → to re-energised by the power of the handshake economy
- From “Make America Great Again” → to Make the World Great — all of us, in the same direction, starting now
WHAT’S INSIDE
Broken Bridges moves through three territories: how we got here, what is really at stake, and what we do next.
A simple spine:
- Part One: The Broken System (Chapters 1–4) — Our economy, current trade policy, tariffs, and how we arrived at this moment
- Part Two: The World as It Is (Chapters 5–8) — Global trade flows, education, cultural intelligence, and the empathy imperative
- Part Three: Building New Bridges (Chapters 9–14) — The handshake economy, value-driven engagement, the marathon approach, and a global mindset shift
What you will learn:
- The full history of global trade — from the barter system to Trump’s tariff war — and what it tells us about now
- Why tariffs alone have never built a sustainable trade future, and what actually does
- How cultural intelligence and global empathy are your most underrated business assets
- Why the post-COVID, Zoom-fatigued world is hungry for the handshake economy — and how to use that
- How to build an authentic international narrative that makes you stand out in any market
- Why a long-term marathon approach to international expansion outperforms every sprint strategy
- What a value-driven, purpose-led global business model actually looks like in practice
- How to develop a genuine global mindset — and why it matters more right now than at any point in living memory
WHO IS THIS BOOK FOR?
International Sales & Business Development Professionals
Pain point: The rules keep changing. Tariffs, broken supply chains, shifting alliances — every quarter brings a new disruption and no clear playbook.
What most people try: Reactive pivots, chasing new markets without a framework, over-relying on trade agreements that can be torn up overnight.
What this book gives them: A durable, relationship-first framework for building international business that survives political volatility.
Marketing & Brand Leaders Working Across Borders
Pain point: Generic global campaigns that land badly, cultural missteps that cost trust, no real strategy for authentic international presence.
What most people try: Localisation without genuine cultural understanding. Surface-level adaptation that fools nobody.
What this book gives them: The tools to build an authentic global narrative and a unique identity that resonates across cultures.
Supply Chain & Finance Professionals
Pain point: Exposure to a global system that feels more fragile and unpredictable than ever. Decisions that used to be routine are now high-stakes.
What most people try: Short-term risk mitigation, single-source dependency, cost-cutting at the expense of relationships.
What this book gives them: A broader understanding of the forces shaping global trade, and a case for the long-term partnerships that reduce systemic risk.
Business Leaders Who Sense Something Is Broken
Pain point: A creeping feeling that the current model — profit at any cost, extractive, isolationist — is not working. But there is no clear alternative.
What most people try: Waiting it out. Hoping the political cycle turns.
What this book gives them: A compelling, evidence-backed argument for a new global business model that works for all stakeholders — and the conviction to advocate for it.
Concerned, Globally-Minded Citizens
Pain point: Watching the news and feeling helpless. Knowing something fundamental is wrong but not having the language or framework to articulate it.
What most people try: Disengagement, doom-scrolling, or retreating into local concerns.
What this book gives them: Context, clarity, and a reason for optimism — grounded in 40 years of real-world experience.
PACKAGES TO CONSIDER
Every package includes:
- Access to author updates,
- A copy of the book,
- Invite to a launch of some sort.
How to Choose Your Package
- Reading it solo? Start with the book.
- Gifting it or sharing the message? Grab one for yourself, and gift another.
- You lead people and want direct coaching? Book a customised session.
- Running a department or team? Grab multuple copies and a 60 minute customised session.
- Ready to change your organizational thinking? Then you want me in-person, running a workshop or on a stage.
SELECT YOUR DESIRED LEVEL BELOW
$50 — Paperback
- Paperback copy of Broken Bridges
- Your name in the Acknowledgments section
$75 — Signed Paperback
- Signed paperback copy of Broken Bridges
- Your name in the Acknowledgments section
$100 — Two Signed Copies + Webinar ⭐ Most Popular
- Two signed copies of Broken Bridges
- Help select the cover design
- Your name in the Acknowledgments section
- Invitation to a 30-minute webinar to discuss the book
$200 — Corporate (5 Books)
- 5 copies of Broken Bridges ($40 each)
- Company name in the Acknowledgments section
- 30-minute customised topic webinar
$400 — Corporate (10 Books)
- 10 copies of Broken Bridges ($40 each)
- Company name in the Acknowledgments section
- 30-minute customised topic webinar
$800 — Corporate (20 Books)
- 20 copies of Broken Bridges ($40 each)
- Company name in the Acknowledgments section
- 60-minute customised topic webinar
$1,600 — Workshop
- Full workshop (travel expenses to be covered)
- Unlimited eBooks
- 20 signed copies of Broken Bridges
$5,000 — Customised Keynote
- Customised keynote presentation (travel expenses to be covered)
- 50 signed copies of Broken Bridges
My Hope for the Book
After traveling extensively around the world selling American foods, wines, and ingredients — and learning the ins and outs of international trade as well as the importance of having an open, win-win, empathetic global mindset — my hope is that we will eventually understand that there are countless opportunities in foreign markets.
By doubling our international trade from 11% to 22% or higher of our GNP, our economy would dramatically increase and create many more jobs. Most U.S. companies view exports and overseas ventures as risky — but the truth is, with the proper planning and strategy, it is no riskier than selling to another state.
However, the truth is most Americans are not properly trained to do international business. We need a global education and greater cultural understanding and empathy to truly develop our overseas businesses. Too many people think that a bullying “my way or the highway” approach is the way to win in overseas markets. This is simply not true.
No one wants to deal with a bully or feel that they are on the losing end of a business deal or agreement. It takes much more emotional IQ, intelligence, and empathy to develop a long-term, mutually beneficial business relationship for all.
Lastly, we need to perfect our Capitalistic business model to benefit all stakeholders, not just shareholders, while implementing sustainable business practices to protect our environment for future generations.
About the Author
International Trade & Marketing Executive
Born in Hollywood, California and raised largely in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area, Peter R. Gower’s global journey began with a summer studying in Spain after high school. He went on to graduate from Lebanon Valley College with a degree in Spanish — including a junior year abroad in Spain — before earning his MBA and MIM degrees in International Trade and Marketing from the prestigious Thunderbird School of Global Management.
After a brief stint in advertising in Los Angeles, he served in the public sector at the International Trade Office of the Pennsylvania Department of Commerce before transitioning to the private sector. Over a distinguished career in the food, beverage, and ingredients industries, he held roles with CPC International (Best Foods), Korbel, Beringer Wine Estates, Vin-de-Cal International, Kalsec, Chr. Hansen, and Welch’s — traveling extensively around the world selling American foods, wines, and ingredients.
A father of three sons — Chris, Ryan, and Jake — he was married for 24 years. Outside of business, he is an avid runner with 41 marathons to his name, a dog lover, and an artist whose paintings have sold both domestically and internationally.
Peter R. Gower
Author · Global Trade Expert · Marathon Runner · Artist
TIMELINE + WHAT YOUR SUPPORT MAKES POSSIBLE
The Book’s Journey
| Phase | Status / Notes |
|---|---|
| Writing | Manuscript draft is complete. I have been accepted to the publishing programme. |
| Developmental Editing | Development editing is complete (draft manuscript completed). |
| Presale Campaign | Commences April 20, 2026 and runs until May 25, 2026. Target: at least 200 copies sold, 150+ backers and fans. Monetary goal: to fund the publishing and production phase — the next step on the journey to becoming a published author. |
| Revisions Editing | Begins immediately after the presale campaign ends — a 16-week intensive process transforming the manuscript into a polished book ready for publication. |
| Design | Manuscripts provides a professional design team who handle all final book production elements, including cover design, illustrations, and layout. |
| Editing | Manuscripts has a professional team of copyeditors and proofreaders to ensure the book is properly edited and ready for print. |
| Printing will take place in late December 2026 and early January 2027. | |
| Ship | Signed copies delivery to Founding Members in January 2027. All Founding Members will be kept up to date on the print and production schedule. |
| Published | Publication is planned just after Founding Members receive their copies — you will be the first to read the book. |
| Workshops, Events & 1:1s | Summer 2026 – Summer 2027 |
Where Presale Funds Go
I am working with Manuscripts, a professional publishing service who have successfully published and launched 3,500+ authors with a 90% publishing completion rate.
Your contribution directly funds:
- 16-week Revisions Programme
- Professional Design Services
- Professional Copy Editing and Proofreading Team
- A dedicated Marketing Coach
- Production and Printing Teams
Your contribution builds:
A backer team, author community, and launch team who will journey with me from draft to book, and help co-create a book that will deliver on its vision and mission. This is one of my main incentives. As early adopters and backers, you confirm that the book has promise and an audience — an incredibly important role. I appreciate your decision to jump in and support so generously. I look forward to our journey together.
Risks & Challenges
Every meaningful creation carries an element of the unknown. Here is my honest commitment to you:
The manuscript is well underway, with draft 1 complete and acceptance into the publishing programme secured. The core work is done.
The most common source of delays in book publishing is the design and printing timeline. I am committed to keeping Founding Members informed every step of the way, with transparent updates shared within our exclusive Author Community.
Workshops, immersions, launches, and events are scheduled with lead time built in. In the unlikely event a session needs to be rescheduled, every effort will be made to find a time that works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why am I running a presale campaign?
I’m choosing to crowdfund to build a supportive reader community from day one. Your support helps fund editing, design, printing, and much more!
2. What will appear on my credit card statement?
You will see MANUSCRIPT reflected on your credit card statement.
3. When will I receive the book?
Signed copies for Founding Members are expected to ship in January 2027. I will keep all Founding Members informed of the print and production schedule as it unfolds.
4. Where does shipping come from, and what does it cost?
Shipping is included in the price of each package. Once the books are printed, they come to me so I can sign them and add a personal note. I will keep you informed of all the details as the process unfolds.
5. Can I get a refund or cancel my order?
Manuscripts manages the crowdfunding platform and holds all funds. Should I not complete the programme, they will fully refund all backers. Individual refunds and changes to packages are assessed on an individual basis. The standing rule is: purchases are not refundable, they are transferable.
6. Can I buy multiple copies or gift a package?
Yes! You can only buy one package per transaction, but using the same email address you can return as many times as you like to purchase additional packages or leave a donation.
7. How do I claim my bonuses — the meditations and community access?
Once my presale campaign is completed, I will be in touch with each backer individually to confirm their purchase and discuss delivery details.
8. Will the book be available on Amazon later?
Yes — the book will be published on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online platforms, and will be available to order from local bookshops and libraries. Being a Founding Member means receiving a personally signed copy, acknowledgement in the book, first access, and your name listed as a Founding Member in all published editions.
9. What if the campaign doesn’t reach its goal?
I am confident I will reach my goal. If I fall short, I will decide how to proceed — and if I choose to continue, I will fund any shortfall myself. If that is not possible, all purchases will be fully refunded. Your purchase is protected, and I will communicate any changes that impact delivery of your package.
10. How do I contact Peter?
Email me at p.gowerglobal@gmail.com
Follow and message me on Linkedin
PRESALE PERKS AND PACKAGES
| Name | Donate Amount | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Christine Bowdring Carley | $50.00 | May 12, 2026 11:39 pm |
| Patrice Motter | $50.00 | May 12, 2026 7:15 pm |
| Lauren Critelli | $100.00 | May 12, 2026 2:54 pm |
| John Engelhart | $200.00 | May 12, 2026 12:39 pm |
| John McRandal | $100.00 | May 10, 2026 12:37 pm |
| Thomas Durlach | $50.00 | May 7, 2026 9:47 am |
| Eric Koester | $75.00 | May 7, 2026 8:44 am |
| Douglas Raff | $75.00 | May 6, 2026 12:15 pm |
| Joe Cekola | $200.00 | May 6, 2026 11:09 am |
| Kim Milone | $75.00 | May 5, 2026 10:26 am |
| Donald Elliott | $75.00 | May 4, 2026 6:19 pm |
| Holly Heitmann | $100.00 | May 2, 2026 11:56 pm |
| Doug Graham | $50.00 | May 2, 2026 11:25 am |
| William O'Leary | $50.00 | April 27, 2026 3:15 pm |
| Lee Pelton | $75.00 | April 27, 2026 8:25 am |
| Norman Barrientos | $50.00 | April 26, 2026 10:16 pm |
| Mary Breitweiser | $50.00 | April 25, 2026 1:03 pm |
| Mary Breitweiser | $50.00 | April 25, 2026 12:59 pm |
| Jake Gower | $50.00 | April 23, 2026 9:38 pm |
| Mario Mazza | $200.00 | April 23, 2026 8:10 pm |
| James Knipper | $100.00 | April 23, 2026 7:35 pm |
| Gustavo Puente | $75.00 | April 21, 2026 10:02 pm |
| Wayne Lutomski | $50.00 | April 21, 2026 1:47 pm |
| Michelle Pizzo | $75.00 | April 21, 2026 1:40 pm |
| Sarah Mothershead | $50.00 | April 21, 2026 1:04 pm |
| kevin faehndrich | $50.00 | April 21, 2026 12:01 pm |
| Carl Vivaldi | $100.00 | April 21, 2026 11:18 am |
| Ruth Ann Handley | $50.00 | April 20, 2026 6:42 pm |
| David Purnell | $100.00 | April 20, 2026 4:38 pm |
| Charles Blevins | $75.00 | April 20, 2026 3:21 pm |