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
Oct 19, 2020 • 26min
Gallo: Godfathers of Wine | The Grapes of Wrath | 5
In the tumultuous 1960s, the Gallo brothers face threats from the Chicago mob as they struggle for wine market dominance. Familial tensions rise, pushing Joe Jr. out of the family business amid the chaos of the Vietnam War. Simultaneously, a fierce labor battle brews as Cesar Chavez's United Farmworkers challenge the company's practices. The Gallo family grapples with the weight of legacy and the moral implications of their corporate decisions in the face of growing activism. A gripping saga of power, betrayal, and social justice unfolds.
Oct 14, 2020 • 23min
Gallo: Godfathers of Wine | Thunderbird | 4
In the 1940s, the Gallo brothers pivot from war contracts for ethyl alcohol to the grape market. They face internal conflict over sales strategies that spark rivalry between them. Ernest's controversial creation, Thunderbird, catapults their success but strains their relationship. The podcast also delves into the wine industry's competitive spirit and challenges, highlighting the brothers' innovative marketing amidst civil unrest. Quality versus quantity becomes a focal point as they navigate a shifting landscape filled with high stakes and tension.
Oct 12, 2020 • 24min
Gallo: Godfathers of Wine | The Miracle Year | 3
In the 1930s, the Gallo brothers dive into the wine business as Prohibition ends, with Ernest pushing for innovative sales tactics that blur ethical lines. Tension simmers as family dynamics fray, especially between Ernest and their brother Joe, Jr., leading to troubling decisions. Meanwhile, Ernest embarks on a covert quest to boost wine visibility in stores, all while grappling with the challenges of leadership and the impacts of wartime on their empire. It's a fascinating tale of ambition, betrayal, and the complexities of family in the business world.
Oct 7, 2020 • 23min
Gallo: Godfathers of Wine | Violence in the Vineyard | 2
Ernest Gallo, one of the legendary Gallo brothers, discusses his family's rise in the wine industry during the tumultuous 1920s and 30s. He shares thrilling tales of navigating bootlegging operations and negotiating with Al Capone while coping with his father's violent tendencies. The conversation delves into the impact of the Great Depression on their business and the tragic events that would forever change their lives. Listeners will get a gripping look at the intersections of family loyalty, ambition, and the darker side of entrepreneurship.
Oct 5, 2020 • 22min
Gallo: Godfathers of Wine | The Gangster and The Grape Grower | 1
Two brothers from Italy arrive in the U.S. with dreams of success but stumble into a chaotic life of cons and crime. Prohibition forces them into the perilous world of bootlegging, setting off a chain of disastrous events. Unbeknownst to them, their violent legacy will pave the way for their sons, Ernest and Julio, to reshape the wine industry and create the world’s largest wine company. This gripping tale reveals family tensions, criminal escapades, and the remarkable transformation from a troubled past to a thriving dynasty.
Sep 30, 2020 • 28min
Pizza Hut vs Domino's | Hut In A Rut? | 7
Sam Oches, editorial director of Food News Media, dives into the intense rivalry between Pizza Hut and Domino's. The discussion highlights how Domino’s turnaround post-2009 crisis shifted it to the forefront, thanks to tech and delivery innovations. Meanwhile, Pizza Hut's focus on sit-down dining endured modest gains. They explore changing consumer preferences post-pandemic and the unique challenges each brand faces in the competitive pizza landscape. The conversation also hints at future industry trends like robotic deliveries.
Sep 28, 2020 • 23min
Pizza Hut vs Domino's | The Pizza Confession | 6
In 2009, Domino's faced a major crisis due to a viral video exposing unsanitary practices. The company boldly launched a 'Pizza Turnaround' campaign, revamping its recipe to regain customer trust. Meanwhile, Pizza Hut struggled with declining sales and old-fashioned branding, attempting to revitalize its image while battling fierce competition. The podcast highlights the intense rivalry between these two pizza giants, especially as technology reshaped customer service and delivery in the ever-evolving food landscape.
Sep 23, 2020 • 23min
Pizza Hut vs Domino's | Slices of Science | 5
In the 1990s, Domino's bold 30-minute delivery promise hits a legal snag, forcing the company to adapt. Meanwhile, Pizza Hut concocts innovative recipes to stay competitive, including a surprising new dish. The rivalry intensifies as new player Papa John's emerges, shaking up the market. The discussion dives into the corporate maneuvers and technological shifts shaping both chains, with Domino's rolling out an order tracking system as they navigate reputational hurdles. It's all about evolving strategies in the pizza battleground!
Sep 22, 2020 • 16min
Sponsored | Seoul Taco Founder David Choi on the ‘Right Way’ to Expand a Business | 2
David Choi, founder of Seoul Taco, shares his journey from food truck to restaurant chain founder. He discusses the importance of community support and employee care in his expansion across Illinois and Missouri. Choi reflects on the challenges of entrepreneurship and the necessity of adaptability, particularly during the pandemic. He emphasizes the value of building a positive company culture and the need for effective delegation as a business scales. Listeners will get insights into his future aspirations for the vibrant fusion dining experience.
Sep 21, 2020 • 22min
Pizza Hut vs Domino's | Deliverance | 4
In this engaging discussion, Tom Monaghan, the founder of Domino's Pizza, shares his remarkable rags-to-riches journey and philanthropic pursuits. He recounts the fierce competition with Pizza Hut in the late 1980s, revealing the extravagant tactics employed by Domino's and the challenges faced by franchisees under corporate pressure. Monaghan also reflects on a crisis of conscience that led him to prioritize charity over wealth. With insights into market shifts and emerging threats, the conversation highlights the intense dynamics of the pizza delivery industry.
