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
Aug 17, 2020 • 22min
FedEx vs UPS | Kick the Tire, Light the Fires | 1
Explore the ambitious beginnings of FedEx in the 1970s as founder Fred Smith bets millions on a revolutionary overnight delivery idea. Witness the chaos and challenges during UPS's labor strike, which unexpectedly allows FedEx to gain traction. Discover the fierce rivalry as FedEx enters a market dominated by UPS, navigating setbacks and financial hurdles. It's a gripping tale of innovation, risk, and the battle for supremacy in the shipping industry.
Aug 12, 2020 • 20min
Dating App Wars | Dating Apps Pivot as COVID-19 Continues | 7
Ashley Carman, a senior reporter at The Verge and co-host of Why'd You Push That Button, dives into the booming world of dating apps during the pandemic. She discusses how platforms have adapted with innovative features to keep users engaged, emphasizing the rise of virtual dating and new app entrants like Facebook Dating. Carman also explores privacy concerns in the dating ecosystem and the financial success of giants like Match Group, showcasing the resilience of online romance amid crisis.
Aug 10, 2020 • 22min
Dating App Wars | An App-rehensive Future | 6
Whitney Wolfe Herd's Bumble faces a major scandal with harassment allegations against a co-founder, shaking its anti-misogyny foundation. Grindr experiences upheaval after a Chinese acquisition leads to backlash from the LGBTQ community. Meanwhile, Facebook's entry into dating shifts competitive dynamics, raising concerns over privacy. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically alters online dating, prompting innovations like OKZoomer to help singles navigate virtual courtship, alongside new challenges of ghosting and fake profiles.
Aug 5, 2020 • 21min
Dating App Wars | Are You Ready to Bumble? | 5
The podcast dives into the explosion of niche dating apps catering to unique interests, from dog lovers to bacon enthusiasts. It highlights Bumble's empowering twist on dating, pitting it against titans like Match Group amid legal confrontations. Discover the underbelly of online dating with revelations about deceptive practices and fake accounts designed to ensnare users. Amid ongoing litigation, the fierce competition reveals the shifting landscape of romance in the digital age.
Aug 3, 2020 • 21min
Dating App Wars | Crimes of Passion | 4
A seemingly ordinary office romance unravels into a scandal that shakes Tinder's power structure. Amid rising safety concerns for women in online dating, new apps emerge, prioritizing female users. Legal battles over harassment allegations at Tinder raise questions about its future. Meanwhile, Bumble carves its niche in empowering women to make the first move. The podcast also delves into the competitive world of dating apps, highlighting unique pitches and the complexities of modern love in a digital landscape.
Jul 29, 2020 • 24min
Dating App Wars | The Revolution Will Be Swiped | 3
A groundbreaking new dating app for gay users is set to shake up the market with innovative features. Meanwhile, the origins of Tinder's explosive rise reveal moments of creativity sparked by everyday life. The competitive battleground intensifies as Hinge emerges, aiming to foster deeper connections amid Tinder's dominance. Tensions flare within Tinder’s leadership, leading to a shake-up that could redefine the industry. Personal dynamics and the fight for market control illustrate the chaotic evolution of the online dating landscape.
Jul 27, 2020 • 23min
Dating App Wars | eHarmonic Convergence | 2
Dr. Neil Clark Warren, a theologian and clinical psychologist, founded eHarmony with a vision to create meaningful relationships through a unique compatibility algorithm. He discusses rivalries with giants like Match.com, revealing the challenges of attracting users while adhering to a Christian agenda. The podcast also touches on controversies, including a discrimination lawsuit that shook the industry and reshaped online dating. Warren's journey is a fascinating blend of faith, innovation, and the quest for real connections in a digital world.
Jul 22, 2020 • 24min
Dating App Wars | Lighting Up Match.com | 1
In 1995, online dating is seen as a sleazy joke, but Match.com emerges to change the game. Founder Gary Kremen faces skepticism as he ignites a digital romance revolution. The first date of Shannon and Chad showcases how connections evolve through technology. As interest grows, the competitive dating landscape heats up, influenced by pop culture hits like 'You've Got Mail'. Match.com's reign is challenged by newcomers like eHarmony, all vying for love in a rapidly transforming market.
Jul 20, 2020 • 21min
Diamond Wars | The Future of the Diamond Industry | 8
Paul Zimnisky, an independent global diamond industry analyst, shares his insights on the changing landscape of the diamond market. He discusses how younger consumers demand transparency and ethical sourcing, prompting a shift towards lab-grown diamonds. The conversation delves into the complexities of diamond provenance and the role of technology in enhancing consumer trust. Zimnisky also examines the traditional marketing legacy and how cultural significance of diamonds is evolving with changing consumer preferences, especially in emerging markets.
Jul 15, 2020 • 26min
Diamond Wars | The Alchemists | 7
In the 2000s, the diamond industry faces major upheaval as De Beers navigates its new leadership role amidst a thriving synthetic diamond market. The episode explores the groundbreaking CVD method for creating lab-grown gems and reveals the surprising discovery of gem-quality synthetic diamonds. Issues in Zimbabwe highlight the human cost of traditional mining practices, while a fierce battle erupts between legacy companies and innovative startups. De Beers attempts to adapt by introducing budget-friendly synthetic options, challenging old perceptions and reshaping the market.
