
Business Wars
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, inventors, investors and executives to new heights -- or to ruin. Hosted by David Brown, former anchor of Marketplace. From Wondery, the network behind Dirty John 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.
Latest episodes

13 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 32min
Beyond Meat vs Impossible Burger | Beefing Up, Chowing Down | 3
In 2019, the fierce rivalry between plant-based meat giants intensifies as they respond to criticisms from the beef industry. Tensions rise with an aggressive Super Bowl ad campaign, showcasing the battle for market dominance. Internal struggles surface at Impossible Foods as leaders clash over rapid growth strategies. Meanwhile, Beyond Meat faces financial hurdles and seeks partnerships with major fast-food chains. Amid rising consumer demand, both companies navigate misinformation and shift their marketing tactics to capture overwhelmed consumers.

9 snips
Oct 23, 2024 • 31min
Beyond Meat vs Impossible Burger | Flame Broiled | 2
In 2016, two innovators, Ethan and Pat, master the game of plant-based burgers. Beyond Meat catches eyes on Wall Street while Impossible Foods enlists celebrity chefs to elevate its brand. Tension rises as both companies navigate challenges from traditional meat ranchers and face issues like supply shortages. The excitement of Impossible's launch in New York contrasts with Beyond Meat's growing popularity at Whole Foods. The battle heats up as legislation emerges, and demand for plant-based options skyrockets.

14 snips
Oct 16, 2024 • 38min
Beyond Meat vs Impossible Burger | Pressure Cooker | 1
In 2008, two innovators named Brown, unaware of each other's endeavors, aimed to tackle climate change through plant-based meat. Beyond Meat’s first breakthrough was a fake chicken strip, while Impossible Foods emerged two years later, igniting a fierce rivalry. The podcast dives into the pioneers' backgrounds, their sustainability missions, and the challenges they faced. Innovations like engineered yeast for flavor and groundbreaking taste tests reveal the competitive spirit driving the plant-based meat revolution.

Oct 10, 2024 • 39min
The Smash Burger Smackdown | 5
Join Josh Scherer and Nicole Enayati from Mythical Kitchen, alongside Eater LA's Mona Holmes, as they dive into the juicy world of smash burgers. They explore the history and evolution of this trend, debating the science behind crafting the perfect one. With taste tests of iconic California burgers, they discuss sustainable beef and rising plant-based options. The crew also reflects on cultural significance, food trends, and the shift toward independent eateries, sparking spirited food debates sure to tantalize any burger lover!

Oct 9, 2024 • 41min
Vogue: Once and Forever | Fashion's Next Big Thing | 4
Rachel Tashjian, a Washington Post fashion writer and Opulent Tips newsletter author, joins David to discuss the shifting dynamics of fashion journalism. They explore how social media creators are now driving trends, and what this means for legacy outlets like Vogue. Tashjian dives into the evolution of fashion publications, emphasizing the need for innovation amidst digital adaptation. The conversation also highlights how the industry is redefining its narrative and engaging with younger audiences while reflecting on the nostalgia for past styles.

Oct 2, 2024 • 39min
Vogue: Once and Forever | Red Ink | 3
Dive into the dramatic evolution of fashion media during the 1990s and beyond! Explore the highs and lows of Vogue as it grapples with its identity in the digital age. Discover the fierce rivalry with InStyle and how celebrity influence transformed the industry. Learn about the iconic Met Gala's cultural significance and the innovative strategies that revived Vogue's online presence. As print struggles, witness the fierce battle for relevance among fashion magazines amidst a changing landscape!

Sep 25, 2024 • 38min
Vogue: Once and Forever | Astonish Me | 2
Dive into the competitive world of fashion journalism in the 1930s and 40s, where fierce rivalries ignite between Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. Discover how Diana Vreeland's bold vision transformed Vogue and how Helen Gurley Brown revolutionized Cosmopolitan with her seductive flair. Explore the struggles and triumphs of key figures like Carmel Snow and Edna Chase as they navigated a turbulent industry. Witness the pivotal moments that shaped modern fashion magazines and foreshadowed the rise of future icons like Anna Wintour.

Sep 18, 2024 • 39min
Vogue: Once and Forever | Front Row | 1
The podcast dives into the fierce rivalry of 1970s fashion magazines, spotlighting Vogue’s battles for relevance amidst rising stars like Elle and Cosmopolitan. It recounts a harrowing Vogue photoshoot in the treacherous Andes and examines the shifting dynamics of women's empowerment through media controversies. The transformative influence of Anna Wintour’s leadership is also explored, showcasing her innovative strategies in an evolving fashion landscape. Expect fiery clashes, cultural reflections, and the struggle for editorial authenticity.

24 snips
Sep 12, 2024 • 35min
The IKEA Effect | 6
Katie Deighton, a customer experience reporter for The Wall Street Journal, and NPR Training Editor Holly J. Morris, an IKEA superfan, explore the cultural phenomenon of IKEA. They discuss the company’s unique shopping experience, from its maze-like layout to its budget-friendly meatballs. The conversation dives into the emotional attachments customers form through the 'IKEA effect' and how the brand’s quirky origins and commitment to sustainability have shaped its legacy. Personal anecdotes add a warm touch to their insights on IKEA's impact on modern life.

Sep 11, 2024 • 42min
Fox News vs CNN | CNN’s Rough Year | 5
Dylan Byers, a senior correspondent at Puck, discusses the fallout from CNN's leadership changes and the network's struggles to regain trust amid rising competition from Fox News and MSNBC. Elaine Lowe from The Ankler shares insights on the broader television landscape, detailing legacy media's challenges in the streaming era. They explore CNN's identity crisis, controversial programming choices, and the impact of digital evolution on traditional news. Plus, they dive into the entertainment industry's shift as major players rethink their strategies to survive.
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