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
Mar 2, 2020 • 25min
Starbucks vs Dunkin - A Steamy Culture Clash | 1
Discover the origins of Dunkin' Donuts, where Bill Rosenberg transformed his humble beginnings into a coffee phenomenon. Uncover the fierce rivalry with Starbucks, shaped by distinct identities and consumer choices. Explore the innovative strategies that propelled Dunkin's success, including the launch of Munchkins. Dive into the Italian influence on Howard Schultz, which redefined Starbucks' approach to coffee culture. This clash of coffee giants reveals the fascinating evolution of America's love affair with coffee.
Feb 24, 2020 • 25min
Nintendo vs Sony - No Surrender | 6
Nintendo is set to shake up the gaming scene after years on the sidelines, but its family-friendly image could be a liability. With gamers who grew up in the '80s craving more mature content, the heat is on as Sony unleashes edgy titles like Grand Theft Auto. The battle intensifies as Sony's marketing strategy rolls out featuring avatars like Crash Bandicoot, while Nintendo prepares for the launch of its groundbreaking Nintendo 64. Can Zelda and Mario hold their ground against the PlayStation's rising dominance? The outcome will shape the future of gaming.
Feb 19, 2020 • 23min
Nintendo vs Sony - The Sleeping Giant | 5
Nintendo's bold choice of cartridges over CDs sent shockwaves through the gaming industry. Developers grew frustrated and flocked to Sony, leaving Nintendo to scramble for compelling titles. The intense competition saw Nintendo's innovative 3D graphics and unique controller design take center stage, while their rivalry with Sony reshaped the cultural landscape of gaming. With high stakes and a brave gamble, this battle would determine who would reign supreme in the gaming world.
4 snips
Feb 17, 2020 • 24min
Nintendo vs Sony - Game Time | 4
In the thrilling world of gaming, the rivalry between Nintendo, Sony, and Sega unfolds. As Sega feels threatened by Sony's PlayStation, the urgency to innovate intensifies. The excitement builds leading up to the PlayStation's launch, with sellouts in mere hours highlighting its instant success. The fierce competition showcases unique marketing strategies, dramatically shifting the landscape of console dominance. Fans witness the transformative impact of these titans as they navigate a rapidly evolving market.
Feb 12, 2020 • 25min
Nintendo vs Sony - Charm Offensive | 3
The development of the PlayStation was filled with dramatic twists, starting with the controversial controller design that sparked intense debate among designers. Tensions grew within the team as they raced to create a game library just before launch. Meanwhile, the rivalry with Nintendo heated up as Ken Kutaragi showcased the PlayStation's innovative 3D graphics, impressing skeptical game developers. The competition didn't stop there; Sony was also up against Sega in a bid for gaming dominance, making the stakes even higher.
8 snips
Feb 10, 2020 • 29min
Nintendo vs Sony - Man of Steel | 2
Discover the early days of Nintendo as Hiroshi Yamauchi takes the helm in 1949, determined to reshape the company from a playing card business. Explore the challenges he faces, including labor disputes and industry competition. Witness the dramatic shift into the toy industry, foreshadowing future innovations. The narrative then unfolds into the late 70s and 80s, spotlighting Nintendo's groundbreaking partnerships and iconic launches like Donkey Kong and the NES, solidifying its place in gaming history.
Feb 5, 2020 • 30min
Nintendo vs Sony - Stabbed in the Back | 1
Ken Kutaragi, a key engineer at Sony, shares his firsthand experience in the dramatic split between Sony and Nintendo during the early 90s. He reveals how a promising partnership crumbled when Nintendo unexpectedly turned to Philips. The podcast dives into the intense rivalry that led to the creation of the PlayStation and the challenges Kutaragi faced amid corporate intrigue. Listeners will be captivated by tales of betrayal and ambition that shaped the gaming industry as we know it today.
Jan 27, 2020 • 25min
Boeing vs Airbus - The Max Controversy | 7
In this discussion, Tom Anthony, an aviation safety expert from the University of Southern California, dives into the legendary rivalry between Boeing and Airbus. He reflects on the Boeing 737's storied history and the fierce competition sparked by Airbus' A320. Tom explores the significant cultural shifts at Boeing, revealing how profit often overstepped safety. He unpacks the troubling issues surrounding the 737 MAX crashes, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability within the industry for a safer future.
Jan 22, 2020 • 27min
Boeing vs Airbus - Mayday | 6
In 2011, the fierce competition between Boeing and Airbus escalates as American Airlines seeks to purchase 460 aircraft. Boeing's bold move to introduce the 737 MAX ignites a series of events that lead to a significant crisis. The discussion shifts to Boeing's 787 Dreamliner's grounding due to safety issues, raising concerns about public confidence. Furthermore, the narrative uncovers the tragic outcomes of hasty decisions and highlights the corporate culture challenges faced by Boeing in this cutthroat industry.
Jan 20, 2020 • 25min
Boeing vs Airbus - Losing Altitude | 5
In the tumultuous 2000s, Airbus sets its sights on the sky with plans for the massive A380 while Boeing pursues speed with the Sonic Cruiser. Tensions rise as Boeing grapples with risk aversion, watching Airbus innovate aggressively. A scandal brews over aircraft subsidies, complicating their rivalry. Production issues plague both giants, especially Airbus's A380, amidst internal struggles and significant delays. As the competition heats up, both companies face mounting challenges that could redefine the aviation landscape.
