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
66 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 38min
The Unraveling of Boeing | Change of Destination | 2
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.
76 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 34min
The Unraveling of Boeing | The Crash | 1
In 2019, the tragic crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 sends Boeing's reputation into free fall. A malfunction in the MCAS system leads to chaos and tragedy. This event sparks intense international scrutiny over the safety practices of Boeing and the controversial 737 MAX. The fallout includes a global grounding of the aircraft, and significant leadership changes within the company as they struggle to regain trust. The discussion reveals how past decisions prioritized profits over engineering integrity, exposing a deep-seated crisis.
11 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 47min
Behind the Scenes | 5
Join Gina Keating, author and documentarian on the Netflix vs. Blockbuster rivalry, and sound designer Kyle Randall as they take you behind the curtain. They discuss the creative challenges of bringing market rivalries to life, from impactful storytelling to immersive sound design. Hear about their journey in crafting emotional narratives that connect with listeners. Plus, a lively debate on food preferences leads to fond memories, while they reflect on their bond with the audience.
43 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 32min
Shopping in the Social Media Age | 4
Jordyn Holman, a retail reporter for The New York Times, and Kitty Guo, a gifting writer for The Strategist, dive into how TikTok is revolutionizing holiday shopping. They discuss trends like 'de-influencing' and the rise of 'quiet luxury,' where consumers prefer meaningful gifts over impulse buys. The guests explore how emotional ties and nostalgia are still vital in gift-giving, even as social media simplifies purchases. Insights into shifting consumer attitudes towards authenticity and the contrasting fates of Walmart and Target complete the conversation.
39 snips
Dec 25, 2024 • 37min
Disney Under Siege | The ‘Bob’ of It All | 3
Sean McNulty, a reporter at The Ankler and co-host of The Ankler Podcast, dives into the tumultuous leadership landscape at Disney. He discusses Bob Iger's looming exit and the proxy battles shaking up the boardroom, laying bare the challenges faced by his successor, Bob Chapek. The conversation touches on Disney's recent streaming gains against industry giants, the ongoing layoffs aimed at enhancing profitability, and Nelson Peltz's influence on the company’s future. It's a riveting look at the challenges and strategies shaping the Disney empire.
109 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 34min
Disney Under Seige | Peltz Strikes Back | 2
Bob Iger's struggle to reassure investors unfolds against a backdrop of declining stock prices and the disruptive media landscape. Tensions rise as activist investor Nelson Peltz challenges Disney’s leadership, demanding strategic changes. A fierce proxy battle ensues, with strong endorsements shaping the fight for board seats. As both sides prepare for a crucial shareholders meeting, the stakes couldn't be higher for Disney's future amidst evolving investor sentiments and shifting storytelling dynamics.
118 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 33min
Disney Under Siege | Restore the Magic | 1
As Disney grapples with crises, a pivotal dinner reveals the clash between creative visions and budget constraints. Tensions rise as Nelson Peltz, fueled by frustrations over sinking stock prices, strategizes a boardroom coup with powerful allies. Leadership turmoil unfolds as the company faces operational setbacks amid the pandemic. The specter of Bob Iger's return looms over current CEO Chapek, as a potential proxy fight with investors amplifies the chaos. A corporate showdown brews, highlighting the high stakes at play for Disney's future.
34 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 36min
Chuck E Cheese vs ShowBiz Pizza | Where a Kid Can be a Kid | 3
In this engaging discussion, Ben Coley, a senior editor at QSR Magazine, and Ross Brackman, director of the American Treasure Tour Museum, dive into the world of Chuck E. Cheese and ShowBiz Pizza. They contemplate the role of nostalgia in Chuck E. Cheese's survival, especially as it adapts to modern challenges. Brackman shares fascinating insights about the origins of animatronics that once captivated audiences, highlighting the emotional connection these characters foster across generations. Can classic entertainment thrive in a tech-driven world?
47 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 38min
Chuck E Cheese vs ShowBiz Pizza | Broken Robots | 2
The fierce rivalry between Chuck E. Cheese and ShowBiz Pizza takes center stage in a battle for kids' entertainment supremacy. Legal maneuvers and strategic expansions showcase the high stakes as the companies fight to stay afloat amid a declining video game market. The dramatic grand opening of ShowBiz's 100th location brings hope, but financial turmoil looms. As both brands face bankruptcy, a potential merger emerges as their last chance for survival in an unpredictable industry.
25 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 33min
Chuck E Cheese vs ShowBiz Pizza | Rat Pizza | 1
In 1976, Nolan Bushnell invents Chuck E. Cheese, blending pizza and arcade fun, only to face competition from Robert Brock's ShowBiz Pizza. The rivalry ignites a 1980s showdown, fostering a unique entertainment experience for families. As animatronics come into play, both chains strive for supremacy, leaving a lasting impact on pop culture. Amid their challenges, including questionable food quality and corporate hurdles, the battle reshapes the family dining landscape, setting the stage for future pizza parlor innovations.
