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
Jul 12, 2021 • 25min
Encore: Southwest vs American Airlines | Free LUV | 6
The podcast explores the fierce competition in the airline industry during the mid-1980s, highlighting the rise of low-cost carriers like People Express. It examines Southwest Airlines' unique culture and resilience, thanks to dedicated employees fostering a friendly atmosphere. The discussion shifts to economic turmoil, revealing how Southwest thrived while larger airlines struggled. The rivalry intensifies in the 1990s, showing American Airlines facing financial losses as Southwest boldly expands its low-cost strategies in a turbulent market.
Jul 7, 2021 • 23min
Encore: Southwest vs American Airlines | The Cult of Herb | 5
Herb Kelleher's dynamic leadership at Southwest Airlines takes center stage, showcasing his efforts to navigate the FAA's restrictive slot system. The story highlights the fierce rivalry with American Airlines during the transformative deregulation era. Listen in as strategic maneuvers and unexpected challenges reshape the airline industry. Kelleher's bold moves, including the acquisition of Muse Air, set the tone for intense competition and innovation, illuminating how charisma and culture play pivotal roles in the airline landscape.
Jul 5, 2021 • 24min
Encore: Southwest vs American Airlines | The Darling of Deregulation | 4
Tensions flare as Southwest Airlines faces leadership conflicts while eyeing expansion amid deregulation. CEO Al Casey at American Airlines struggles with cash flow, resulting in a dramatic headquarters relocation. Meanwhile, Herb Kelleher emerges as a key player navigating corporate turmoil. The competitive landscape heats up as both airlines battle over routes and strategies in a changing regulatory environment, highlighting the resilience of Southwest in the face of adversity.
Jun 30, 2021 • 20min
Encore: Southwest vs American Airlines | Aviation Cyber Wars | 3
In the midst of a travel industry revolution, American Airlines races to implement SABRE, a groundbreaking electronic reservation system, before competitors catch up. Tensions flare as airline titans clash at a charity event, highlighting intense rivalries. The looming deregulation spells uncertainty, with Southwest Airlines emerging as a fierce contender advocating for industry changes. As new technologies and competition reshape the landscape, the future of air travel is uncertain yet thrilling.
Jun 28, 2021 • 22min
Encore: Southwest vs American Airlines | Dogfight Over Dallas | 2
The fierce rivalry between Southwest and Braniff Airlines heats up as Braniff slashes fares, prompting Southwest to get creative with free drinks for its customers. Tensions rise as lawsuits unfold, with both airlines navigating chaotic courtroom battles. Meanwhile, American Airlines enters the fray, equipped with new tech and strategies. The introduction of the Sabre reservation system changes the game, allowing one airline to gain a crucial edge over the other. It's a high-stakes dogfight for supremacy in the skies!
Jun 23, 2021 • 24min
Encore: Southwest vs American Airlines | Clearing the Runway | 1
The inception of a no-frills airline service sparks a revolution in Texas. Founders Rollin King and Herb Kelleher confront legal challenges while aiming for affordable air travel. Amid turbulence, excitement swells as Southwest Airlines prepares for its inaugural flight. A malfunction during takeoff tests the crew's resolve, but they swiftly adapt. As financial crises loom, bold strategic moves and innovative thinking propel the airline back to profitability, showcasing the fierce competition with industry giants like American Airlines.
Jun 21, 2021 • 24min
Food Delivery Wars | Can Food Apps Ever Deliver Profits? | 5
Preetika Rana, a technology reporter at The Wall Street Journal, dives into the fierce competition in the food delivery app sector. She highlights how companies like DoorDash and Uber grapple with profitability despite soaring demand. Topics include the financial struggles due to high costs, the challenges of maintaining relationships with restaurants, and navigating regulatory hurdles. Preetika also sheds light on labor issues facing gig workers and the potential impact of automation on the future of the industry.
Jun 16, 2021 • 29min
Food Delivery Wars | Just Deserts | 4
In July 2019, DoorDash rises above Grubhub but faces backlash for misusing driver tips. The intensity escalates as DoorDash and Uber team up against a California proposition threatening their business model. The pandemic hits, favoring food delivery giants, but questions arise about sustaining this growth. Strategies emerge as companies like Uber Eats and Grubhub adapt to the new landscape, while restaurants pivot to direct orders, seeking stronger customer connections amidst fierce competition and evolving challenges.
Jun 14, 2021 • 28min
Food Delivery Wars | Deliver or Die | 3
In December 2014, Grubhub's CEO takes bold steps to reclaim market share by employing its own drivers. Meanwhile, DoorDash faces fundraising challenges and scrutiny over its practices. Postmates capitalizes on the luxury segment, while Uber Eats expands its reach, notably through a partnership with McDonald's. Tensions rise as angry drivers threaten the whole food delivery model. Legal battles, competitive strategies, and evolving market dynamics paint a lively picture of this fast-paced industry.
Jun 9, 2021 • 23min
Food Delivery Wars | Who's The Boss? | 2
Journey back to the 1990s, where a young Tony Xu washes dishes while dreaming up ways to help small businesses thrive. Meanwhile, Bastian Lehmann’s forgotten snowboard sparks the birth of Postmates. Grubhub's founders strive to make local pizza as easy to find as apartments. Learn how Travis Kalanick sees food delivery as the next frontier for Uber. The podcast dives into the entrepreneurial spirit and fierce competition shaping the food delivery landscape, revealing the twists and turns of innovation.
