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
Oct 18, 2021 • 26min
Fast Fashion | Can Fast Fashion Sustain Itself? | 6
Rachel Tashjian, a fashion critic at GQ, explores the critical challenges facing the fast fashion industry, known for its heavy environmental impact. She discusses alarming statistics about pollution and textile waste while questioning how long the current model can survive. Tashjian highlights consumer habits and the tension between affordable trends and sustainable practices. The rise of rental apps and resale markets are also examined as potential solutions, reflecting a shift towards eco-friendly fashion consumption that could reshape the industry.
Oct 13, 2021 • 25min
Fast Fashion | Long Haul | 5
In 2019, fast fashion takes a hit as Shein faces allegations of design theft from independent creators. Amid growing interest in sustainability, former Topshop director Jane Shepherdson explores clothing rentals as an eco-friendly option. Forever 21 attempts a comeback under new leadership while navigating a changing landscape. The rise of influencers and social media poses fresh challenges for traditional retailers. As the industry shifts, the impacts of COVID-19 further reshape consumer behavior and fashion choices.
Oct 11, 2021 • 23min
Fast Fashion | Dress for Excess | 4
In 2018, H&M grapples with an overwhelming surplus of unsold inventory while Shein flourishes, using social media to deliver ultra-cheap fashion swiftly. The tumultuous journey of Topshop unfolds as allegations against its leader spark outrage, and Forever 21 faces its own troubles. The podcast delves into the fast fashion industry's adaptation to viral trends, the impact of scandals on brand reputation, and the ongoing challenges of sustainability amidst rising competition.
Oct 6, 2021 • 29min
Fast Fashion | Clothes Call | 3
In 2010, tragic factory fires in Bangladesh put the fast fashion industry under scrutiny. H&M responds by launching an eco-friendly line, while Zara invests in RFID technology to streamline operations. Meanwhile, Forever 21 faces legal challenges over copyright issues. Enter Shein, a disruptor that revolutionizes fast fashion with its online-only model. This shift changes the game, forcing legacy brands to adapt to the rapid pace of consumer demand and technology.
Oct 4, 2021 • 24min
Fast Fashion | Stitch by Stitch | 2
In 1974, Amancio Ortega's journey from poverty in Spain leads to the creation of Zara, a fast fashion powerhouse. Meanwhile, Topshop emerges from a department store basement, while a Korean immigrant couple launch Forever 21, capitalizing on affordability. The dynamic rise of these brands showcases innovative strategies and direct-to-consumer approaches amidst the vibrant 1970s fashion scene. Discover how competition between these giants reshapes the industry, highlighting ambition, ingenuity, and the pursuit of the American dream.
Sep 29, 2021 • 27min
Fast Fashion | Fire Sale | 1
In the vibrant world of 1987 fashion, Jane Shepherdson catapults Topshop into the limelight, but her journey is jeopardized by the arrival of tycoon Philip Green. Meanwhile, H&M breaks into the US market, revamping fast fashion with a luxe collab with Karl Lagerfeld. Explore the tension between sustainability and consumerism, as a journalist reveals unsettling truths about unsold clothing being incinerated. Discover the fierce competition and evolving trends that define an era, alongside the transformative impact of designer partnerships.
Sep 27, 2021 • 28min
Death Row Records vs Bad Boy Records | Life After Wartime | 6
Naima Cochrane, a music and culture journalist and former industry executive, dives deep into the fierce rivalry between Death Row and Bad Boy Records. She shares insights on the impact of the gangsta rap era and how it shaped the hip-hop industry. The discussion touches on the tragic losses of Tupac and Biggie and Faith Evans' pivotal role in this war. Cochrane also highlights the evolution of female representation in hip-hop and contrasts the past with today's emerging voices, emphasizing the ongoing challenges and opportunities in the industry.
Sep 22, 2021 • 22min
Death Row Records vs Bad Boy Records | You’re Nobody ‘til Somebody Kills You | 5
The fierce rivalry between Death Row and Bad Boy Records escalates into tragedy, claiming the lives of Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls. As tensions rise, Dr. Dre leaves Death Row to pursue a safer path while Suge Knight's aggressive tactics deepen the conflict. The emotional aftermath of Biggie's death sends shockwaves through the hip-hop community, forcing artists to reflect on their legacies. Meanwhile, Bad Boy thrives amid chaos, while Death Row faces a significant decline, showcasing the stark realities of the industry.
Sep 20, 2021 • 21min
Death Row Records vs Bad Boy Records | Hit ‘Em Up | 4
The rivalry between Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls takes center stage as their friendship unravels amidst East Coast-West Coast tensions. Tupac's meteoric rise from prison to music icon is contrasted with Biggie's struggle for recognition. The podcast delves into their fierce conflict, highlighting Tupac's explosive diss track 'Hit Em Up.' Legal troubles and personal betrayals escalate the rivalry, showcasing the darker side of hip-hop culture during the '90s.
Sep 15, 2021 • 24min
Death Row Records vs Bad Boy Records | Ready to Die | 3
Explore the early struggles of hip-hop legends, with Dr. Dre spinning records in Compton while Biggie and Puffy carve out their paths in New York. Discover how their journeys shaped epic rivalries and sound identities. Hear about the momentous meeting between Dre and Iovine, which sparked a marketing revolution for Death Row Records. The discussion also dives into the importance of self-care amidst the chaos of the industry, highlighting the balance between personal wellness and cutthroat competition in music.
