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 23, 2022 • 36min
Toyota vs Honda | Breaking Ground | 3
In the backdrop of the 1980s, the battle between Honda and Toyota heats up as the American market pushes back against Japanese cars. Honda aims for the luxury segment, challenging Toyota's traditional approach. As Ford seeks ties with Toyota, tensions rise. Cultural clashes emerge when former GM workers adapt to Toyota’s rigorous standards. Meanwhile, Lexus faces recalls, and both companies race to innovate in hybrid technology, revealing the fierce competition for the future of the automotive industry.
4 snips
Nov 16, 2022 • 37min
Toyota vs Honda | Motor City Massacre | 2
In the 1960s, Honda races to enter the car market while battling internal conflicts about its identity. Meanwhile, Toyota is solidifying its American presence, navigating fierce competition. The introduction of compact vehicles sparks rivalry, with Honda's microcar debut and Toyota’s impactful Corona. As fuel efficiency trends rise in the aftermath of the oil crisis, Japanese automakers thrive, challenging the traditional giants. The story unfolds with pivotal innovations like Honda's CVCC engine shaping the industry landscape.
16 snips
Nov 9, 2022 • 38min
Toyota vs Honda | Out of the Wreckage | 1
Kiichiro Toyoda, the visionary founder of Toyota and son of an industrialist, shares insights from the post-war era in Japan. As the nation rebuilds from devastation, Toyota grapples with labor disputes and the ambition to create a world-class passenger car. Toyoda's dreams are cut short by personal tragedy, yet his legacy inspires his cousin to pursue innovation. Meanwhile, Soichiro Honda rises from humble beginnings, seeking inspiration in Europe for groundbreaking creations like the Super Cub, foreshadowing an intense rivalry in the automotive industry.
Nov 3, 2022 • 43min
Best of Business Wars Daily | Sticker Shock | 6
In this lively discussion, Wall Street Journal reporter Sean McLain, an expert on the electric vehicle market, shares insights on the ongoing chip shortage and its effects on car production. Comedian Kurt Braunohler adds humor while addressing the serious issues of car recalls, particularly concerning Toyota and Rivian. Together, they delve into consumer confidence in electric vehicles, the joy of driving them, and the innovative future of two-wheel electrics, all while keeping the tone engaging and entertaining.
8 snips
Nov 2, 2022 • 38min
Taco Bell vs Chipotle | Taco Talk | 5
Join fast food experts Mary Meisenzahl and Andrew Pridgen as they dive into the fierce competition between Taco Bell and Chipotle. Mary shares her eye-opening tour of Taco Bell's test kitchen, unveiling innovative menu concepts aimed at Gen Z. Andrew discusses Bakersfield's unique role as a fast food test market, where new creations first hit the streets. The conversation highlights Taco Bell’s playful marketing strategies compared to Chipotle’s focus on quality, revealing the nuances that fuel this delicious rivalry.
18 snips
Oct 26, 2022 • 37min
Taco Bell vs Chipotle | Going Loco | 4
In 2009, Taco Bell is on a quest to attract younger consumers as it approaches its 50th anniversary. The brand collaborates with Frito-Lay to innovate with a Doritos-flavored taco. Meanwhile, Chipotle faces a major crisis due to a food poisoning outbreak that shakes customer trust. The rivalry intensifies as Taco Bell takes bold marketing steps, launching the wildly successful Doritos Locos Taco, while both brands navigate their unique challenges in a changing fast-food landscape.
13 snips
Oct 19, 2022 • 37min
Taco Bell vs Chipotle | Where's the Beef? | 3
In the late '90s, Chipotle's founder navigates the fast-food giant's influence while striving for quality. As Chipotle flourishes, Taco Bell battles to keep diners loyal with unique menu innovations. The podcast highlights Taco Bell’s image crisis over beef authenticity and its bold campaign to regain trust. Meanwhile, Chipotle's new COO enforces high standards and a fresh identity. With Taco Bell's impending 50th anniversary, the contrasting journeys of these two dining titans illustrate the evolving fast-food landscape.
4 snips
Oct 12, 2022 • 35min
Taco Bell vs Chipotle | Bellwether | 2
In the 1950s, Glen Bell takes on the burger giants with a bold idea: introducing tacos as fast food. His journey is filled with skepticism and challenges, but his determination pays off. As Taco Bell rises to fame, the competitive landscape heats up, leading to a dramatic potential sale that could change everything. The story dives into the intense negotiations and strategic moves that shaped the fast food industry, revealing how one entrepreneur turned an exotic dish into a cultural icon.
12 snips
Oct 5, 2022 • 36min
Taco Bell vs Chipotle | Demolition Man | 1
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.
Sep 29, 2022 • 37min
Best of Business Wars Daily | The Power of Nuggets | 5
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.
