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
14 snips
Jun 21, 2023 • 37min
Target vs Walmart | Bricks and Bytes | 4
In 2013, Target grapples with a massive data breach, stirring chaos as it struggles to regain consumer trust. Meanwhile, Walmart zeroes in on the threat from Amazon. Target's new CEO must make swift moves to salvage the Canadian expansion amidst potential retreat. As Target launches innovative brands like Cat& Jack, financial anxieties loom. The rivalry intensifies with Target's $7 billion store remodel versus Walmart's grocery-driven stability, setting the stage for a captivating retail showdown.
16 snips
Jun 14, 2023 • 40min
Target vs Walmart | Wardrobe Malfunction | 3
In 2005, Walmart was reeling from a tough holiday season and needed a strategy to counter Target's growing success with chic fashion lines. The confrontation between their executives revealed Walmart’s bid to launch Metro 7 to reclaim shoppers. As Walmart celebrated growth, Target faced crises, including a staggering inventory inaccuracy that rattled operations. The battle for expansion in Canada further intensified the rivalry, showcasing how both giants navigated economic pressures and shifting consumer trends.
13 snips
Jun 7, 2023 • 38min
Target vs Walmart | The Beast from Bentonville | 2
In the 1990s retail showdown, Walmart faces intense scrutiny over ethical practices as Target positions itself as the friendly alternative. Target seizes on Walmart's vulnerabilities, sparking fierce competition. Explore Target's bold leap into upscale design through collaborations, transforming its image. Meanwhile, Walmart struggles to adapt with aggressive pricing strategies during the holidays. The podcast dives deep into the rivalry, examining how both giants navigate shifts in consumer expectations and market dynamics.
16 snips
May 31, 2023 • 37min
Target vs Walmart | Retail Rumble | 1
In the fiery landscape of 1960s retail, two giants emerge: Walmart and Target. Discover how Sam Walton courageously launches Walmart amid fierce competition and financial struggles, while Target navigates its identity crisis. The podcast dives into Walmart's bold acquisition strategies and technological leaps that reshape the retail game. Customers face frustrations at Target, prompting urgent calls for service improvements. The rivalry escalates with dramatic bidding wars, showcasing the relentless battle for market dominance.
May 25, 2023 • 29min
Best of Business Wars Daily | Add to Cart | 7
Join comedian Kat Alvarado, known for her debut comedy album 'Off-White', and Karin Vembar, editor at Retail Dive, as they dive into the booming trend of secondhand fashion and the rise of e-commerce platforms like Depop. They explore how fast-fashion brands are rebranding for Gen Z, the ethical dilemmas consumers face, and the complexities surrounding diversity initiatives in fashion. With humor and insight, they unpack the evolving landscape of retail, sustainability, and consumer behavior.
May 24, 2023 • 28min
Encore: Crypto Wars | Zuckerpunch | 6
In 2017, the cryptocurrency bubble is about to burst, revealing the volatile nature of the market. The Winklevoss twins are challenged by Mark Zuckerberg's ambitious plans to position Facebook in global finance. As Bitcoin soars past $10,000, scammers flourish, particularly the infamous BitConnect scheme, ensnaring unsuspecting investors. Meanwhile, Coinbase faces a legal battle over data reporting amidst fierce competition with Binance. The podcast highlights the striking contrasts between crypto culture and traditional finance, capturing a pivotal moment in financial disruption.
8 snips
May 24, 2023 • 27min
Encore: Crypto Wars | New Kids on the Blockchain | 5
Vitalik Buterin, the 19-year-old creator of Ethereum, shares his journey of revolutionizing the blockchain landscape. He discusses the inception of Ethereum, its smart contract capabilities, and the subsequent explosion of new cryptocurrencies. He highlights the chaos of Coinbase amid a surge of new investors and the impact of celebrity endorsements on the crypto market. Buterin also touches on the rising tensions within companies navigating fluctuating cryptocurrencies and the intense competition from emerging platforms like Robinhood.
May 24, 2023 • 24min
Encore: Crypto Wars | Block Busting | 4
In 2015, Coinbase is gearing up to launch its new Bitcoin exchange, but faces fierce competition from the Winklevoss twins’ Gemini. Regulatory challenges and banking woes add pressure to CEO Brian Armstrong as he navigates a rapidly growing yet volatile market. As the debate over Bitcoin's block sizes heats up, contrasting strategies emerge between innovation and compliance. The stakes are high as Coinbase contends with the wild dynamics of cryptocurrency, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats.
May 17, 2023 • 27min
Encore: Crypto Wars | The Great Slow Motion Swindle | 3
In 2013, the cryptocurrency world faces turmoil as arrests and corporate collapses shake the industry. Notably, Coinbase seizes the opportunity to build trust amidst the chaos. The dramatic arrest of a pivotal Bitcoin figure adds to the chaos, alongside the catastrophic collapse of Mt. Gox. As trust becomes paramount, Coinbase’s strategic approach and a critical presentation fortify its reputation. Rivalries heat up, particularly between Coinbase and the Winklevoss twins, highlighting the fierce competition in a rapidly evolving landscape.
May 17, 2023 • 25min
Encore: Crypto Wars | The Untouchables | 2
In 2011, the Winklevoss twins face setbacks from their Facebook rivalry but find new hope on the dance floor, diving into the world of cryptocurrency. The narrative explores Charlie Shrem's ambitions with BitInstant, revealing the burgeoning Bitcoin landscape and trading hurdles. The twins' initial foray into Bitcoin marks a turning point as they embrace digital currency, while Coinbase rises amidst financial chaos, shaping the future of crypto trading. It's a thrilling journey of transformation and opportunity in a rapidly evolving market.
