Business Wars
Wondery
Netflix vs. HBO. Nike vs. Adidas. Business is war. Sometimes the prize is your wallet or your attention. Sometimes, it’s just the fun of beating the other guy. The outcome of these battles shapes what we buy and how we live. Business Wars gives you the unauthorized, real story of what drives these companies and their leaders, innovators, investors and executives to new heights -- or to ruin. Hosted by David Brown, former anchor of Marketplace. From Wondery, the network behind Against the Odds and American History Tellers.Listen to Business Wars on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App or on Apple Podcasts. Start your free trial today by visiting wondery.com/links/business-wars/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 39min
Dieselgate | Running on Fumes | 2
Volkswagen's 'clean' diesel vehicles face scrutiny as emissions tests reveal shocking discrepancies. Internal strategies to conceal a software defeat device spark regulatory investigations. Whistleblowing comes into play as an insider discloses the truth, leading to massive fines and a major corporate shakeup. The fallout sees billions set aside for settlements and a pivot towards electric vehicles. The scandal underscores the broader problems within the diesel industry, challenging the narrative of sustainability.
97 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 31min
Dieselgate | Truth or Dare | 1
The podcast delves into Volkswagen's ambitions under CEO Martin Winterkorn as they aimed to outpace rival automakers. It uncovers the pressures that led to cutting regulatory corners and highlights the infamous defeat device in their EA 189 engine. Internal objections were silenced amidst a culture of fear, even as VW promoted a green image externally. The narrative contrasts public success with private failures, leaving listeners eager for how the deception will unfold as researchers and regulators start to intervene.
51 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 44min
The Great Sriracha Feud | If You Can't Stand the Heat | 3
Joseph Hernandez, Associate Director at Bon Appétit, delves into the booming condiment culture, highlighting sriracha's rise and the emergence of global flavors like gochujang. Nik Sharma, a molecular biologist turned chef, breaks down the science behind spice and our biological reactions to heat. The conversation heats up with a live taste test of various spicy ingredients, revealing the fascinating interplay of flavor, culture, and memory. From hot honey to chili crisp, they explore why we crave that fiery kick!
95 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 38min
The Great Sriracha Feud | Showdown | 2
A fierce rivalry unfolds as Huy Fong Foods faces supply issues, forcing them to grapple with dwindling chili pepper resources. Underwood Ranches, unable to recover losses from a canceled contract, devises a plan to create their own Sriracha. Legal battles heat up as both sides navigate contract disputes, revealing the intense strain on their once-collaborative relationship. Supply chain challenges and evolving consumer loyalty add spice to the mix, making this a deliciously dramatic tale of business and betrayal.
116 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 38min
The Great Sriracha Feud | The Only Hot Sauce Billionaire | 1
Discover the journey of David Tran and his iconic Sriracha sauce, which took the hot sauce world by storm in the 1980s. Dive into the challenges of sourcing quality red jalapeños as Tran partners with a family farm, facing supply chain hurdles. Explore the collaborative spirit that fueled their success, but also the tensions that arise when new business dynamics threaten their relationship. Witness the cultural impact of Sriracha, which has become a staple in kitchens across America.
200 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 39min
McDonald's vs The Burger Revolution | The Price is Right | 2
The burger business is heating up with fast-casual chains like Shake Shack and Five Guys thriving. McDonald's attempts to reinvent itself with healthier options and innovative marketing, like the Step It Activity Band, face significant backlash. The pandemic challenges these brands further, raising questions about consumer priorities between quality and cost. As Shake Shack navigates competition and profitability, McDonald's grapples with safety incidents and reputational damage, showcasing the fierce dynamics of the fast-food landscape.
203 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 40min
McDonald's vs The Burger Revolution | Better Burgers | 1
In the mid-2000s, a burger revolution shakes up the industry as Five Guys and Shake Shack escalate competition against fast-food giants like McDonald's. The story dives into Jerry Murrell's bold decision to franchise Five Guys, igniting growth while staying true to quality. Meanwhile, Shake Shack’s inventive approach attracts health-conscious consumers, challenging traditional fast food norms. The rivalry intensifies as they face off in expanding markets, showcasing how marketing and gourmet options redefine burger culture.
37 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 40min
Can Southwest Airlines Survive? | Bumpy Skies Ahead | 3
Joe Guinto, a seasoned business journalist, and Benét Wilson, known as the ‘Aviation Queen,’ explore Southwest Airlines' recent shifts from friendly policies to new models with assigned seating and baggage fees. They discuss customer dissatisfaction and the airline's need to adapt, revealing insights from industry experts. Pay attention as they delve into high ticket prices and the best travel-friendly credit cards that maximize benefits for frequent flyers, ensuring listeners stay informed on navigating the skies with savvy.
127 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 42min
Can Southwest Airlines Survive? | Excess Baggage | 2
In 2023, Southwest Airlines faces a crisis with plunging stock and jet shortages. CEO Bob Jordan makes tough calls, including hiring freezes and staff cuts. Amid labor disputes and changing passenger expectations, the airline grapples with its identity crisis. Will the shift from open seating and free bags alienate loyal customers? As Southwest navigates winter challenges and competitive pressures, it embarks on a new strategy aimed at survival—and the stakes have never been higher.
94 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 40min
Can Southwest Airlines Survive? | Hard Landing | 1
In 2021, Southwest Airlines faced a staggering annual net loss as the pandemic reshaped the air travel landscape. Workers rushed towards early retirement, leaving the airline struggling with staffing shortages when demand surged. A brutal winter storm revealed the cracks in their outdated technology, stranding millions. Protests erupted over labor conditions, reflecting growing tensions as flight attendants demanded better treatment. Amid rising costs and a changing industry, the question looms: can the airline recover and soar again?
