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
139 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 40min
Rebuilding LEGO | Brick to the Future | 2
In late 2003, LEGO faces the brink of bankruptcy. A three-man leadership team, led by Jorgen Wig-Nutstorp, explores radical solutions to turn the company around. They discuss the need to return to core strengths while overcoming the challenges of rapid expansion. The episode highlights how LEGO revitalizes its brand through creativity, adapting to feedback from children and adult fans. The introduction of popular product lines like Ninjago and Lego Friends showcases the brand's innovative renaissance and importance of engaging its audience.
113 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 42min
Rebuilding LEGO | A Burning Platform | 1
In 1997, LEGO faced a dramatic profit collapse, forcing a reevaluation of its approach. Debate brewed over a potential Star Wars licensing deal, bringing tension between innovation and tradition. Complacency had nearly led to bankruptcy, prompting urgent calls for change. The challenges of engaging today’s kids were starkly evident, especially after the disappointing launch of the 'Galador' toy line. A consultant's candid assessment highlighted the dire need for immediate transformation if LEGO was to survive in a shifting market.
28 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 38min
23andMe's Fatal Flaw | Guess Who’s Back | 3
Lila MacLellan, a Senior Writer at Fortune known for profiling Anne Wojcicki, discusses Wojcicki’s ambitious bid to regain control of 23andMe amid bankruptcy. She reveals insights into Wojcicki's leadership style and the potential future of the company. Alexi Horowitz-Ghazi from NPR’s Planet Money dives into the grave implications of bankruptcy on consumer data protection and trust. They explore the sensitive topic of genetic data security, raising alarms over how bankruptcy impacts consumer privacy.
41 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 39min
23andMe's Fatal Flaw | Defying Gravity? | 2
23andMe grapples with low sales, prompting a daring shift to lower prices and venture into pharmaceuticals. The journey of their founder reflects a rocky path filled with regulatory hurdles and a damaging data breach. Meanwhile, survival insights take center stage, offering gripping real-life stories and expert tips for facing life-threatening events, from animal attacks to natural disasters. The mix of corporate ambition and life-or-death wisdom provides a compelling exploration of resilience in business and personal realms.
89 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 37min
23andMe's Fatal Flaw | Great Expectorations | 1
Discover the fascinating journey of 23andMe, launched by Anne Wojcicki with the goal of democratizing genetic testing. Explore a high-fashion event where guests contribute saliva samples, blending glamour with biotech. Dive into the ups and downs of the company, including bold innovations and regulatory challenges. Personal stories reveal the emotional impact of ancestry and health insights. Experience the competitive landscape of genetic testing as 23andMe navigates funding struggles and evolving consumer preferences.
115 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 45min
Netflix and the Fall of Television | To the Max | 3
After AT&T acquires Time Warner, HBO faces the challenge of transforming its prestigious brand into a broader streaming service. The struggle to maintain quality content while competing with giants like Disney+ adds tension. Amidst this, HBO Max's rocky launch during the pandemic highlights the critical need for effective marketing in a crowded landscape. The dynamics of the entertainment industry are shifting, revealing the intricate challenges of balancing subscriber growth with brand loyalty in the age of streaming wars.
105 snips
May 28, 2025 • 38min
Netflix and the Fall of Television | The Mouse Strikes Back | 2
The podcast explores Netflix's bold move of hiring Shonda Rimes from ABC, prompting Disney to launch its own streaming service, Disney+. The internal clashes during Disney's service rollout reveal the pressure of the competitive market. Ambitious subscriptions targets and the impact of COVID shake up the industry, while corporate struggles around vision and restructuring add to the drama. Disney's strategic pivot emphasizes careful innovation amidst rising tensions and challenges, setting the stage for innovation and rivalries in the streaming landscape.
187 snips
May 21, 2025 • 40min
Netflix and the Fall of Television | The Game Changer | 1
In 2017, Netflix shook up Hollywood with a groundbreaking deal for Shonda Rhimes, carving out its place as a competitor to legacy studios. The podcast delves into Netflix's strategic pivots post-pandemic, including introducing an ad-supported tier amid subscriber losses. It also explores the recent push into live sports broadcasting, showcasing the changing dynamics in entertainment. From password sharing policies to innovative collaborations with influencers, Netflix continues to redefine viewer engagement in a fiercely competitive market.
68 snips
May 15, 2025 • 44min
Starbucks' Bitter Brew | A Cup of Competition | 3
In this engaging discussion, comedian Josh Gondelman, a devoted Dunkin' fan, shares his love for the brand and its cultural connection to Boston. Sam Oches, editor at Nation's Restaurant News, brings insights into the fierce competition among coffee giants like Starbucks and emerging drive-thru chains. They explore the unique customer experiences at Dunkin', the rising trend of drive-thru coffee shops, and how brands are adapting to Gen Z's changing preferences for sweeter drinks. Humor and personal anecdotes make this rivalry even more entertaining!
67 snips
May 14, 2025 • 43min
Starbucks' Bitter Brew | Back in Black | 2
In 2023, Starbucks faces mounting pressure as employees push for unionization while competitors like Dunkin' and McDonald's seize market opportunities. Internal tensions rise as Howard Schultz turns against his successor amidst declining sales. The podcast dives into the struggles of Starbucks’ identity, exploring employee dissatisfaction and the challenges of restoring the brand's community feel. Leadership conflicts arise, and a new CEO proposes a vision to revitalize customer experience, all while navigating fierce competition and operational hurdles.
