Business Wars

John Martin, former CEO of Taco Bell, dives into the intense competition of the fast-food industry. He shares his bold marketing strategies to revive Taco Bell's sales amid rising rival Chipotle. With a creative metaphor comparing market share to meringue pie, Martin discusses how Taco Bell's innovative menu aimed to disrupt the status quo. The challenges of declining sales and the contrasting approaches of Taco Bell and Chipotle create a captivating narrative highlighting the evolution of fast food.

Heather Haddon, a Wall Street Journal reporter focusing on fast food, teams up with comedian Josh Gondelman to dissect the ever-evolving landscape of the fast food industry. They explore how nostalgia and innovative marketing strategies shape consumer preferences, especially around iconic items like chicken nuggets. From the role of celebrity collaborations to the balance between comfort food and healthier options, they highlight how major chains adapt to stay relevant. This lively discussion reveals the cultural significance and ongoing competition in the fast food arena.

It’s safe to say that Taylor Swift and Scooter Braun are…never, ever, getting back together. Taking us inside their battle is Chris Willman, senior music writer at Variety, who’s covered Taylor since her early days as an up-and-coming young artist on the country music scene.Later, we’ll dive into the growing artist labor movement with Damon Krukowski, the drummer for the late 80s indie band Galaxie 500. Damon shares how the band bought back its masters from their label and why most bands aren’t as fortunate. He’s also breaking down the impact of streaming on musicians' pocketbooks, and what smaller artists are doing to advocate for their rights.Binge all episodes early and ad-free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App https://wondery.app.link/businesswars.Support us by supporting our sponsor!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

By 2019, Taylor Swift's battle to get her masters back from Scooter Braun has gone public. She decides to fight by deploying her own, very dangerous weapon -- the Swifties. And Braun pulls out all the stops to protect his $300 million asset.Binge all episodes early and ad-free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App https://wondery.app.link/businesswars.Support us by supporting our sponsor!ZipRecruiter - Make the hiring process easier by trying ZipRecuriter for free by going to ziprecruiter.com/bwSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Scott Borchetta, the founder of Big Machine Label Group, played a pivotal role in launching Taylor Swift's career. In this discussion, they explore Taylor's bold shift to pop music and her turbulent relationship with her label. The episode dives into her quest for artistic control, the brewing conflict with Scooter Braun over music masters, and the emotional turmoil behind her major decisions. Borchetta sheds light on the harsh realities of the music industry, highlighting Taylor's struggle for ownership amidst public scrutiny.

When Taylor Swift signed to an upstart country label as a teen, she probably didn't realize that she was signing away the rights to something she would spend decades getting back -- her masters. Swift’s fight for her $300 million master recordings is a scrimmage that could reshuffle the entire business model of the music industry. But first, Swift has to make it big. And that's a one-in-a-million shot.Binge all episodes early and ad-free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App https://wondery.app.link/businesswars.Support us by supporting our sponsor!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Brittany Spanos, a Senior staff writer at Rolling Stone, and Naima Cochrane, a music journalist and former record label executive, as they unravel the complexities of the modern music industry. They discuss the economic struggles artists face in the streaming era, the fallout from Neil Young's controversy with Spotify, and the evolving definition of superstardom. Insights on the industry's push for social justice and sustainable practices reveal a transformative landscape, where artists must navigate new challenges for fair compensation and empowerment.

Doug Herzog, former Viacom executive known for greenlighting iconic shows like South Park, and Matt Belloni, founding member of Puck News, dive into the fascinating history and current challenges of Paramount Pictures. They discuss the studio's evolution from a Hollywood giant to navigating the competitive streaming landscape. Herzog shares insights on the cultural impact of MTV and Comedy Central, while Belloni explores Paramount's strategic missteps and the future of its film library amid the rise of digital platforms.

In December 1993, a fierce bidding war unfolds as QVC takes the lead in acquiring Paramount Pictures. Viacom's Sumner Redstone is determined to fight back, attempting a merger with Blockbuster to secure the funds needed to compete. Tensions rise as Blockbuster's chairman, Wayne Huizenga, remains steadfast against Redstone's strategy. The stakes are high in this corporate clash, filled with negotiations, emotional turmoil, and tight deadlines that define the chaotic world of 90s mergers.

In the fall of 1993, Viacom is confident it has secured Paramount Pictures, but QVC's Barry Diller launches a surprise counter-offensive. The battle heats up with high-stakes bids and unforeseen legal challenges. As both leaders strategize, they discover that their alliances may not be as reliable as they thought. The rivalry captures the intense dynamics of the entertainment industry, showcasing how key figures maneuvered to shape Paramount's future.