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
Nov 13, 2025 • 40min
Gap's Revival | Better in Navy? | 3
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.
Nov 12, 2025 • 38min
Gap's Revival | Back in Blue | 2
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?
13 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 4min
Listen Now: American History Tellers | The Mayflower
Dive into the perilous journey of the Mayflower as it faces treacherous storms and a damaged beam. Discover the intense pressure on the captain to make a risky decision to repair the ship and continue westward. Uncover the myths and conflicts surrounding the Pilgrims' story that shaped America. This engaging narrative reveals how historical voyages influence our lives today.
54 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 42min
Gap's Revival | Faded Khakis | 1
In 2016, a fire at a Gap distribution center symbolized deeper issues within the brand. Once a cultural icon, Gap struggled against fast fashion and disappointing sales. The attempt to revive the brand with Kanye West's partnership turned into chaos, marked by unpredictable tensions and a clashing aesthetic. Despite initial hype, lack of cohesive strategy and corporate disputes led to further decline. As Old Navy faced retrenchment, Gap sought new leadership, hoping for a turnaround with a fresh vision inspired by previous successes.
59 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 33min
How Lululemon Won Athleisure | Mirror, Mirror | 2
Explore the explosive growth of the athleisure market in the 2010s as Lululemon skyrockets to fame, only to face scandals over sheer pants and controversial comments from its founder. Discover the corporate turmoil surrounding CEO resignations and the challenges of maintaining brand identity amid fierce competition. Delve into Lululemon's ambitious pivot to tech with the acquisition of Mirror, and reflect on how new challengers are reshaping the landscape. Despite setbacks, Lululemon's global presence and resilient strategy keep it in the game.
109 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 40min
How Lululemon Won Athleisure | Child's Pose | 1
Discover how Chip Wilson tapped into the yoga craze of the late 90s to create Lululemon, crafting the iconic yoga pants. Delve into the brand's rise with unique community-building strategies and cheeky marketing stunts. However, not all was smooth sailing as growth brought controversy, provocative remarks, and a recall crisis. Explore the evolving dynamics between Wilson and his leadership team as they contend with scaling the empire amid increasing competition and operational challenges.
114 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 42min
The Rise and Fall of Peloton | Pedal On | 3
Lauren Thomas, a business reporter for The Wall Street Journal, discusses how Peloton can navigate its post-pandemic challenges, including leadership changes and the need for subscription diversification. Cassie Ho, a fitness entrepreneur and creator of Blogilates, shares her journey from fitness videos to launching her activewear line, PopFlex, and the thrill of having Taylor Swift wear her design. They explore community-building in fitness and Cassie's reflections on balancing mental health with content creation.
120 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 36min
The Rise and Fall of Peloton | Maximum Effort | 2
The pandemic catapults Peloton's stock, leading to a frantic surge in product demand and supply chain headaches. A tragic incident with the Tread Plus sparks a safety crisis and costly recalls, shaking consumer trust. In the wake of a leadership change, the new CEO focuses on subscriptions, massive layoffs, and shifting manufacturing strategies. Despite a rocky financial landscape with billions in losses, an AI-driven approach and new partnerships aim to stabilize the brand. Peloton's journey sees ups and downs as they seek to reclaim their footing.
168 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 40min
The Rise and Fall of Peloton | Welcome to the Ride | 1
John Foley's vision for a connected exercise bike revolutionized home fitness, leading to Peloton's rise during the pandemic. The founding team cleverly positioned it as a media-centric business. They exceeded Kickstarter goals, validated demand, and attracted a loyal subscriber base. Despite rapid growth, the company faced challenges, including competition and financial pressures. The backlash from a controversial holiday ad and signs of early decline before the pandemic added tension. Peloton's journey is a fascinating blend of innovation, marketing triumphs, and hurdles.
79 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.
