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
Jul 17, 2019 • 25min
Cereal Wars - Breakfast of Champions | 2
In 1904, Quaker Oats bursts onto the cereal scene, prompting Will Kellogg to break free from his brother's shadow. With clever marketing and the original corn flakes, he ignites a fierce family feud. As General Mills enters the fray with the innovative Cheerioats, the competition ramps up. The podcast also delves into the pivotal courtroom battles over trademarks and the transformation of Wheaties through groundbreaking radio ads, showcasing how these rivalries shaped the beloved breakfast industry.
Jul 15, 2019 • 24min
Cereal Wars - A Divine Mission | 1
Explore the late 1800s as America battles a bellyache epidemic, leading Dr. John Harvey Kellogg to revolutionize breakfast with ready-to-eat cereal. Discover how his ethical stance clashes with a former patient who sees dollar signs. Witness the dramatic brotherly conflict between Kellogg and his ambitious younger brother Will, further complicated by a devastating fire at their sanitarium. This historical tale dives deep into the health trends that shaped the cereal industry and the moral dilemmas of success.
Jul 10, 2019 • 26min
Gibson vs Fender - The Future of the Electric Guitar | 7
Ian Port, author of "The Birth of Loud," dives into the dynamic rivalry between Gibson and Fender, exploring how both iconic brands are adapting to the digital age. He discusses Gibson's struggles with brand perception post-bankruptcy and contrasts it with Fender's innovative marketing strategies. The conversation touches on the evolution of guitar quality with affordable options like Squire and the impact of technology on sound. Personal anecdotes about legendary guitars add a nostalgic flair, showcasing their lasting influence on rock music.
Jul 8, 2019 • 24min
Gibson vs Fender - Attack of the Robot Guitars | 6
Explore the dramatic rivalry between Gibson and Fender as they battle for dominance in the guitar market. Witness Gibson's bold CEO using a Stratocaster as a target for motivation and the company's ambitious but rocky innovations. Delve into the legacy of Leo Fender and the legal conflicts that shaped their competition. Discover how strategic shifts, including a new CEO, aimed to rebuild trust with musicians. The quest for the perfect sound amidst a resurgent market keeps the stakes high for both iconic brands.
Jul 3, 2019 • 24min
Gibson vs Fender - Back From the Brink | 5
In the early 1980s, the U.S. guitar market is in decline as synthesizers take over. Fender’s employees orchestrate a buyout from CBS, igniting hope amidst financial struggles. Meanwhile, Gibson grapples with new ownership and heavy competition. We dive into a pivotal moment in 1986 as both brands battle to revive their legacies and appeal to a new generation. The podcast highlights a star-studded birthday celebration for guitar legend Les Paul, revealing the challenges and joys of sustaining iconic music brands in a changing industry.
Jul 1, 2019 • 22min
Gibson vs Fender - Les Pauls Unleashed | 4
In the 1960s, the Les Paul guitar is missing from the market and its namesake fights to revive its production. Meanwhile, Fender thrives under CBS ownership, pushing out mass-produced guitars. The rivalry between Fender and Gibson intensifies as they grapple with corporate influences and the race for market dominance. Listeners hear about iconic shifts in music culture, Bob Dylan's game-changing performance, and the evolving preferences in vintage versus modern guitars. Both brands must decide: innovate wisely or sacrifice quality for sales?
Jun 26, 2019 • 24min
Gibson vs Fender - The Stratocaster Blasts Off | 3
The podcast dives into the iconic clash between two guitar giants: Gibson and Fender. It highlights the launch of the Fender Stratocaster, an innovative guitar that changes the music landscape amidst the rock 'n' roll boom. Tension rises as Leo Fender grapples with success and the pressure of production. The rivalry sparks fierce competition, with Fender’s growth challenging Gibson’s legacy. As Leo prepares to leave his company, the episode captures a pivotal moment that reshapes the future of electric guitars.
Jun 24, 2019 • 27min
Gibson vs Fender - Loud and Clear | 2
In 1950, Fender's solid-body guitar, initially mocked, revolutionizes the music scene with its powerful sound. Meanwhile, Gibson's Ted McCarty feels the heat and seeks to compete by enlisting the renowned Les Paul for a solid-body model. The podcast delves into the transformation of the Esquire into the iconic Telecaster and the guitar industry's fierce rivalry. You'll discover the tonal contrasts between Fender and Gibson, and how Les Paul's endorsement becomes a critical turning point in electric guitar history.
Jun 19, 2019 • 25min
Gibson vs Fender - Les and Leo | 1
In the 1940s, the electric guitar market faced design flaws until innovators began rethinking the instrument. Guitarist Les Paul pitches his revolutionary solid-body design to Gibson but gets rejected, setting the stage for a fierce rivalry. Enter Leo Fender, who is inspired by Paul's ideas and goes on to revolutionize guitar design. This competition not only defines iconic sound characteristics but also stirs deep emotional connections for music lovers. The clash between Gibson and Fender sparks an electrifying evolution in the music world.
Jun 17, 2019 • 25min
Anheuser-Busch vs Miller - Fighting the Crocodile | 6
In the brewing world of 2003, the competition heats up as Anheuser-Busch faces off against Miller. With new strategies in play, Miller aims to reclaim its market share amidst advertising battles. Corporate strife intensifies as Anheuser-Busch grapples with a possible takeover by InBev, spotlighting leadership dynamics in this fierce industry. The iconic rivalry between Budweiser and Miller Lite showcases their strategic market maneuvers, pushing the limits of ambition and resilience in a rapidly changing landscape.
