Business Wars

Flush from its success in video game graphics, Nvidia sets its sights on turning its gaming chips into the tools that will power the next wave of computing advancement. With both investors and computer scientists skeptical, their plan looks like money down the drain. Right up until A.I. researchers discover the untapped power hidden inside Nvidia’s gaming chips.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen 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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Discover the origins of Nvidia, a startup born from three engineers' vision in a Denny's. Learn how CEO Jensen Huang made high-stakes decisions to save the company from early misjudgments and product failures. Explore the dramatic pivot to create first-person shooter chips and the breakthrough launch of the Riva 128 that changed the game. Delve into Nvidia's rise with parallel computing, the challenges posed by competitors like Intel, and the ambitious gamble that led to their dominance in GPUs.

Ryan Dancey, a gaming executive and former VP at Wizards of the Coast, dives into the evolution of Dungeons & Dragons, reflecting on its rise to cultural prominence. He discusses the game's appeal, such as creativity and community, and its growing mainstream audience. Dancey highlights the impact of livestreams like Critical Role, the Open Gaming License's role in expanding content, and challenges in transitioning to digital formats. He also shares insights on AI's potential to transform gameplay and the future of D&D.

The podcast delves into the dramatic financial collapse of Dungeons & Dragons' publisher TSR, highlighting Lorraine Williams' desperate measures to salvage the game. It discusses Wizards of the Coast's strategic investment to secure TSR and the emotional acquisition by Peter Atkison. The conversation covers the innovative Open Gaming License that revolutionized D&D. Finally, it examines the community backlash following the leaked OGL revision, revealing ongoing challenges and D&D's remarkable resilience.

Explore the origins and rise of Dungeons & Dragons as Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson turn handwritten rules into a cultural phenomenon. Discover how a missing child caused a media frenzy, casting D&D in a dark light and boosting its popularity. Hear about TSR's attempts to simplify the game and the financial strain they faced amidst wild expansion efforts. Experience the split among fans and the challenges posed by competitors like Magic: The Gathering that threatened the game's legacy.

In a chilling tale set in West Memphis, Arkansas, three 8-year-old boys are murdered, triggering a frantic investigation amid limited resources. The pressure on local authorities leads them to wrongfully accuse three teenagers, influenced by local gossip and bias. As tension builds in the community, investigators struggle with evidence gaps and distractions, including an infamous false tip about a white van. The harrowing story captures national attention, sparking a prolonged fight for justice that resonates with the public.

Novo Nordisk struggles to meet massive demand for Ozempic as Eli Lilly gains the upper hand in the GLP-1 market with its new drug ZepBound. The competition heats up with innovative strategies like direct sales and lower pricing initiatives. Both companies are vying for market dominance, while leadership changes at Novo Nordisk signal an urgent need for a turnaround. Meanwhile, trials for new obesity treatments and Alzheimer's applications raise hopes for future advancements. The landscape shifts rapidly, leaving both firms in a fierce battle for consumer trust.

The podcast delves into the intense rivalry between Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, stemming from a century of competition in diabetes treatments. It reveals how a diabetes drug, Ozempic, surprisingly became a weight-loss sensation, sparking a rush from competitors. Listeners learn about production challenges, rising demand, and the impact of compounding pharmacies filling shortages. The cultural phenomenon of Ozempic's popularity on social media and the scrutiny of Novo Nordisk's marketing practices further add to the excitement.

Jordyn Holman, a New York Times retail reporter, and Aubrey Avery Jr., a veteran retail executive, dive deep into Gap's marketing revival. Holman discusses how Gap is aiming to reconnect with Gen Z through nostalgia and viral ads while exploring the challenges of maintaining cultural relevance. Avery shares insights on Old Navy's explosive growth and the importance of community outreach. They reflect on leadership under Mickey Drexler and Richard Dickson's strategies, emphasizing a return to the brand's roots.

In late 2023, Gap's new CEO Richard Dickson tackles the brand's struggles with a mission to transform its culture. He aims to revitalize Gap through quality linen pieces and high-fashion collaborations, enlisting renowned designer Zach Posen. Their viral ad campaigns and a Met Gala debut signal a return to style. However, challenges like tariffs threaten supply chains, and a cultural clash with competitors over denim ads tests their resolve. Will Dickson’s strategic moves win back shoppers' hearts?