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
Sep 13, 2021 • 23min
Death Row Records vs Bad Boy Records | Interns & Intimidation | 2
Explore the early struggles and triumphs of hip-hop icons as they come of age in contrasting cultures. Dre's journey from a struggling DJ in Compton to a music mogul unfolds alongside Puff Daddy's ambitions in NYC. The intense rivalry between Death Row and Bad Boy Records marks a pivotal moment in hip-hop history, showcasing the fierce competition and strategies that defined an era. Delve into the explosive world of gangster rap and its impact on culture, fueled by ambition, intimidation, and unforgettable musical clashes.
Sep 8, 2021 • 21min
Death Row Records vs Bad Boy Records | Life After Death | 1
Dive into the explosive rivalry between Death Row and Bad Boy Records that shook the hip-hop world in the '90s. Discover how the rise of Tupac Shakur catapulted Death Row to fame while Biggie Smalls, with Puffy Combs, crafted an emerging sound for Bad Boy. Unpack the tragic aftermath of their deaths, which left indelible marks on the industry and culture. Explore the brewing tensions, media influence, and the complex dynamics that fueled one of music's most legendary feuds.
Sep 6, 2021 • 20min
Summer Food Frenzy: Best of Business Wars Daily
Summer trends in food are heating up with innovative products like gourmet treats and meatless options. Restaurants face labor shortages, pushing brands to offer bonuses and higher wages. The canned cocktail market is thriving, with giants like Anheuser-Busch jumping in. Ice cream brands tackle rising prices through shrinkflation, impacting consumer loyalty. A quirky trend emerges with cicadas on the menu, showcasing sustainability and unique culinary explorations. It's a delicious and dynamic look at how food businesses adapt!
9 snips
Sep 1, 2021 • 26min
The Birth of Vegas | Can Sin City Survive? | 7
Howard Stutz, an award-winning journalist with over 30 years of experience covering Las Vegas gaming, delves into the city's dramatic transformation. He discusses how the once mob-dominated landscape has morphed into a family-friendly entertainment mecca. Stutz shares insights on the challenges faced today, including the impacts of COVID-19, environmental concerns, and increased competition. He also highlights the ongoing evolution of Vegas, revealing what the iconic Strip might look like in the future amidst these hurdles.
12 snips
Aug 30, 2021 • 27min
The Birth of Vegas | Gambling on the Future | 6
Las Vegas undergoes a dramatic transformation from a mob-driven gambling haven to a family-friendly amusement park. Steve Wynn leads this shift, pushing luxurious resorts and attractions. However, the gamble proves risky as Vegas faces financial turmoil and changing visitor preferences. The rise of opulent resorts coincides with tragic events, highlighting the delicate balance of business in this iconic city. The saga of corporate rivalries and the impact of the 2008 crisis reveals the complex evolution of Sin City, showcasing its enduring allure and challenges.
8 snips
Aug 25, 2021 • 27min
The Birth of Vegas | Sharks In the Lobby | 5
Explore the fading grip of the mob on Las Vegas as corporate power rises. Witness Steve Wynn's ambitious vision transform the Strip, shifting from underworld influence to legitimate business. Discover the groundbreaking deal with Caesars Palace that redefined the city and marked Wynn's ascent as a key player. The tragic MGM Grand fire catalyzes a new era of luxury, as competition from Atlantic City forces change. Dive into the rich history that shaped Las Vegas into the entertainment mecca it is today.
8 snips
Aug 23, 2021 • 27min
The Birth of Vegas | Casino Combat | 4
Las Vegas is under the mob's shadow, and change is on the horizon. Billionaire Howard Hughes seeks to reclaim control but finds himself battling against Kirk Kerkorian's ambitious plans for the Strip. The podcast dives into Hughes' obsessive decline and the fierce competition that shapes the city's future. Political intrigue and mob influence create a dramatic backdrop, revealing how key players navigated the chaotic casino landscape. Discover the tumultuous origins of the Las Vegas casino industry in this captivating tale.
5 snips
Aug 18, 2021 • 25min
The Birth of Vegas | Nevada Doubles Down | 3
A former FBI agent leads a crackdown on organized crime in Las Vegas, intensifying the mob's struggles against legal regulations. Governor Grant Sawyer's Gaming Control Act sparks tensions, while the Rat Pack brings a vibrant nightlife that transforms Sin City's image. Amidst this chaos, innovative healthcare solutions emerge, addressing the community's needs. The complex dance of ambition plays out against the backdrop of political turbulence and mob influence, with powerful narratives shaping the history of this iconic city.
7 snips
Aug 16, 2021 • 27min
The Birth of Vegas | The Feds Get Fed Up | 2
The podcast reveals how a Mormon banker boosts mob funding in Las Vegas, solidifying the underworld's grip on the city. Tensions rise as a U.S. senator confronts mob bosses in a dramatic Senate hearing, uncovering deep-rooted corruption. The transformation of Vegas from a rough frontier to a gambling paradise unfolds, highlighting the struggles of African American entertainers against segregation. With ambitious entrepreneurs reshaping the casino industry, the clash between legitimate business and crime fuels the explosive growth of Sin City.
9 snips
Aug 11, 2021 • 26min
The Birth of Vegas | Sunrise on Sin City | 1
In 1931, legalized gambling transforms Las Vegas into a bustling playground for workers of the Hoover Dam. The mob seizes the opportunity, establishing notorious casinos like the Flamingo. Gangsters Meyer Lansky and Bugsy Siegel navigate a world where crime flourishes and local politics are easily influenced. Despite a shocking murder disrupting the scene, Las Vegas only grows more enticing, drawing thrill-seekers into its chaotic nightlife. The clash between organized crime and emerging challengers hints at the city's tumultuous future.
