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
Nov 23, 2020 • 23min
Denim Wars | Are Your Jeans Blue or Red? | 7
In this engaging discussion, Kate Lamberton, a Wharton marketing professor with a focus on consumption behavior, tackles how political identities reshape the denim industry. She explains the rise of partisan consumerism, where shoppers seek brands aligning with their values. The conversation also explores the psychological aspects of scarcity influencing purchases and the shift toward quality over political messaging. Additionally, Lamberton emphasizes the importance of authenticity for entrepreneurs navigating today's complex consumer landscape.
Nov 18, 2020 • 26min
Denim Wars | The Unravelling | 6
In a tale of fashion turmoil, Levi's finds itself in dire straits with debt and dwindling sales. Meanwhile, yoga pants surge in popularity, challenging the supremacy of denim. The story explores Levi's strategic pivot towards women's apparel and an ambitious global listening tour aimed at reconnecting with customers. As jeans evolve into a casual staple, iconic brands must adapt to the comfort-driven consumer preferences, igniting a fierce competition in the apparel landscape.
Nov 16, 2020 • 25min
Denim Wars | Lord of the Flies | 5
Dive into the intense rivalry of the denim world in the '80s as Levi's leads the pack but faces fierce competition from Lee Jeans. Discover the impact of innovative stone washing aimed at women, and the nostalgic return of Buddy Lee driving modern marketing. Explore the corporate tensions at Levi's that threaten employee morale and learn how shifting consumer preferences are leading to their decline. Amid financial challenges, hope looms with potential partnerships and strategic shifts.
Nov 11, 2020 • 25min
Denim Wars | From Freak to Chic | 4
It's the late '60s and Levi's is seeking to stay on trend by tuning into the flower-power movement taking over San Francisco. But keeping up with the ever-shifting tides of fashion is harder than it looks and soon Europe will be taking jeans onto an unfamiliar battleground: the catwalk.Listen ad-free on Wondery+ hereSupport us by supporting our sponsors!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Nov 9, 2020 • 23min
Denim Wars | Storming the Castle | 3
Explore the denim revolution of the 1950s, where rebellious teens challenge dress codes, symbolizing a cultural shift. Hear how Levi's faced fierce competition while trying to win over both traditional workers and a new generation. Discover the clash of iconic brands and their struggle to adapt to the changing fashion landscape. This journey through denim's evolution reflects the impact of Hollywood and youth defiance, turning a once-stigmatized garment into a mainstream staple.
Nov 4, 2020 • 24min
Denim Wars | Old Western Blues | 2
Step back into the mid-1800s as Levi Strauss ventures into the Gold Rush, discovering the booming demand for workwear. A chance encounter with a tailor sparks the innovation of durable denim, revolutionizing the garment industry. The collaboration between Strauss and Jacob Davis leads to the creation of iconic riveted pants. Meanwhile, a heated rivalry emerges with Henry David Lee, showcasing differing marketing strategies and innovative designs. Witness the evolution of blue jeans and the entrepreneurial spirit that shaped labor fashion.
Nov 2, 2020 • 23min
Denim Wars | Cowboys & Indigos | 1
In the 1930s, Levi Strauss & Co. faces the Great Depression's crushing impact on denim sales. As demand spikes thanks to a cowboy craze, Levi's and rival Lee rush to capitalize. The podcast humorously captures a duel of denim brands and their shift from workwear to trendy fashion. Amidst this, Wrangler enters the fray, with Rodeo Ben crafting jeans tailored for cowboys. The changing consumer landscape and clever marketing strategies fuel a fierce competition that reshapes the denim industry forever.
Oct 28, 2020 • 24min
Pandemic Economy: Best of Business Wars Daily | 8
The pandemic reshaped the economy, revealing surprising success stories amidst chaos. Home delivery and streaming services soared as people adapted to new norms. Dairy consumption made a comeback alongside a fitness equipment boom. Innovative healthcare solutions emerged, bringing affordable medications to the forefront. The home improvement sector thrived, spiking outdoor renovations significantly. Celebrity endorsements are driving the CBD market's growth, reshaping brand appeal in unexpected ways.
Oct 26, 2020 • 32min
Gallo: Godfathers Of Wine | The Gallo Family Today | 7
When Ernest and Joseph Gallo died in 2007, decades after their brother Julio, it put an end to a family saga that had stretched for the better part of a century. But the company the brothers founded is still going strong. On the show this week is Cyril Penn, Editor In Chief of Wine Business Monthly, a trade magazine for the wine industry. We’ll talk about the current state of the Gallo Family wine brand and how it fits in the wider California wine industry. Plus, we’ll bring in Barbara Bogaev, who wrote this series, for a quick chat about how she researched the story. Listen ad-free on Wondery+ here Support us by supporting our sponsors!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Oct 21, 2020 • 27min
Gallo: Godfathers of Wine | Wine is Thicker Than Blood | 6
In the 1980s, Gallo's innovative ad campaigns for wine coolers propel them to success. However, family tensions surface when Joe, Jr. ventures into the cheese business, creating rifts with brothers Ernest and Julio. Legal battles ensue over trademark issues and family legacies, revealing buried secrets and deep resentments. As the courtroom drama unfolds, the stakes rise, threatening to dismantle the Gallo family’s bonds forever.
