Business Wars

Red Lobster’s new owners dream up a bold plan to revitalize the chain. And they’ve got a Hail Mary — the lure of endless shrimp. But they’ve failed to recognize just how much shrimp Americans can down in one sitting. Celebrities and TikTokers send up a rallying cry to save the chain — but is it enough?Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen 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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Red Lobster revolutionized how Americans enjoyed seafood, but its rise came with hidden pitfalls. The infamous 'endless shrimp' promotion backfired, dragging the chain into financial strife. Mismanagement and outdated software added to the turmoil. As it fights to modernize under new leadership, the restaurant faces the challenge of appealing to a younger crowd while honoring its loyal base. The story offers crucial lessons in consumer behavior and the complexities of restaurateur decisions.

In this discussion, Sho-Zi Chu, the CEO of TikTok, navigates the stormy waters of U.S. legislation requiring ByteDance to sell the app or face a ban by January 2025. He sheds light on TikTok's legal strategies to challenge the government and the uncertainty looming over the company's future. The conversation highlights declining user retention and dissatisfaction, the rivalry with Meta, and the shifting political landscape that influences TikTok's fate. Chu also touches on the rallying support from users and the interest of billionaires in acquiring the platform.

TikTok faces intense scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers over data privacy and potential Chinese government access. The app ramps up lobbying efforts, trying to rally its millions of American users against proposed bans. As tensions escalate, TikTok prepares for a legal battle while navigating the complex political landscape. Lawmakers grapple with the challenge of addressing public fears without stifling innovation. The podcast highlights the high stakes and potential consequences for the platform's future in America.

TikTok faces mounting pressure from the U.S. government, forcing a potential sale to survive. The fallout from President Trump's executive order brings challenges while a new administration offers a glimmer of hope. With reports questioning TikTok's honesty on user privacy and competition from Facebook intensifying, the platform's future hangs in the balance. This tumultuous period showcases the intricate dance of geopolitics and corporate survival in the social media landscape.

In 2018, TikTok burst onto the U.S. scene, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon, only to find itself at odds with U.S. lawmakers concerned about national security. The podcast explores the app's strategic marketing at VidCon 2019 amidst accusations of censorship and its influence during the pandemic. As TikTok's popularity soared, political tensions grew, leading to fears of potential bans. The ongoing battle highlights the clash between technology and governance, and the complexities of user privacy in an increasingly digital world.

Ed Pierson, a former Boeing senior manager and whistleblower, shares his deep concerns about the safety of the 737 MAX, highlighting internal pressures and cultural issues within Boeing. Sharon Turlip, an aerospace reporter for the Wall Street Journal, assesses Boeing's financial struggles and prospects for recovery amidst stiff competition from Airbus. They discuss the fallout from tragedy, manufacturing defects, and the urgent need for accountability and cultural transformation in the aerospace industry. Will Boeing restore its once-revered reputation?

Boeing's new CEO grapples with the immense task of restoring trust amid the fallout from the 737 MAX crisis. Internal culture issues and public relations challenges collide as he honors the victims of tragic crashes. Compounded by the Ethiopian Airlines disaster and the pandemic's impact on air travel, the company faces significant financial instability. Legal woes and accountability problems loom large, revealing a complex history of quality control failures. As optimism arises with vaccine distribution, the journey towards recovery is fraught with difficulty.

Boeing faces a tumultuous battle as it revamps the 737 MAX to compete with Airbus's A320. Challenges in stabilizing the aircraft emerge during rigorous testing, foreshadowing crises to come. As Boeing scrambles to boost production amid safety concerns, the fallout from the Lion Air Flight 610 crash highlights critical flaws in their automated systems. With scrutiny intensifying, the new CEO must navigate the troubled waters of reputation management and regain trust with regulators and pilots.

Explore the late 1990s, when Boeing's challenges began to unfold amidst fierce competition from Airbus. Discover the impact of a mega-merger with McDonnell Douglas and the internal pressures that led to production issues. Follow the tumultuous journey under a new CEO facing scandals while trying to restore Boeing’s standing. Witness the innovation of the 787 Dreamliner even as Airbus grapples with major setbacks on the A380. Unravel the complex narrative of crises, competition, and ambition in the aerospace industry.