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
Jun 5, 2019 • 23min
Anheuser-Busch vs Miller - It’s Miller Time! | 3
In the early 70s, Miller Brewing, backed by tobacco giant Philip Morris, disrupts the beer scene with its bold 'Miller Time' campaign aimed at blue-collar workers. The introduction of a low-calorie beer sparks intense competition with Anheuser-Busch. Meanwhile, a generational clash unfolds within Anheuser-Busch, as conservative CEO Gussie Busch faces off against his innovative son, August Busch III. The brewing rivalry intensifies, showcasing inventive marketing strategies that redefine the industry.
Jun 3, 2019 • 25min
Anheuser-Busch vs Miller - Swinging for the Majors | 2
In 1933, the end of Prohibition sparked fierce competition in the beer industry. Anheuser-Busch, led by Gussie Busch, aimed to reclaim its throne, but Schlitz was a formidable contender. Meanwhile, Miller Brewing sought to break into the big leagues, innovating with canned beer. The fight intensified through economic challenges and war, as marketing strategies evolved. By the 1960s, internal shifts at Miller reshaped its approach, making the battle for brewing supremacy more thrilling than ever.
May 29, 2019 • 27min
Anheuser-Busch vs Miller - The Beer Barons | 1
In 1893, a fierce brewing rivalry ignites as Adolphus Busch aims to use the World’s Columbian Exposition to promote Budweiser and outshine his competitors. With rivals like Captain Pabst and a newcomer named Miller creating waves, the competition heats up. Legal battles over the iconic Budweiser name unfold, showcasing the lengths these brewers will go for dominance. Meanwhile, the historical backdrop of Chicago's grand exposition reveals a vibrant cultural landscape, setting the stage for monumental shifts in the beer industry.
May 27, 2019 • 33min
Netflix vs Blockbuster Revisited - What’s Next for Digital Streaming | 9
In this engaging conversation, Rich Greenfield, a media and tech analyst at BTIG, shares his expertise on the rapidly evolving streaming landscape. He discusses how traditional media companies are partnering to adapt, with Disney's acquisition of Hulu as a key example. Greenfield highlights the shift from cable bundles to customized streaming choices, offering viewers more financial freedom. He also explores Netflix's growth potential amidst increasing competition from major players like NBCUniversal and Disney, predicting a dynamic future for digital entertainment.
May 22, 2019 • 21min
Netflix vs Blockbuster Revisited - Streamers Everywhere | 8
In the spring of 2019, Disney announced a bold entry into the streaming market with Disney+, aiming to rival Netflix. Bob Iger's strategy includes enticing pricing and acquiring Hulu to bolster their content library. Meanwhile, Apple and other media giants ramp up competition, each adopting unique approaches to capture viewer interest. This battle transforms the streaming landscape, forcing Netflix to pivot to original content as traditional companies scramble to adapt. The race for viewer attention intensifies in a world where time is limited.
May 20, 2019 • 25min
Netflix vs Blockbuster Revisited - Break the Wheel | 7
The podcast dives into Netflix's evolution from a streaming service to a global movement that empowers viewers. It highlights the company's bold expansion into 130 countries, forever changing how audiences consume content. As HBO navigates its own challenges, the discussion shifts to the implications of its standalone streaming service. The competitive landscape of streaming unfolds, showcasing strategies from giants like Netflix and Apple. Prepare for a thrilling look at how technology reshapes entertainment and viewer habits!
May 15, 2019 • 23min
Netflix vs Blockbuster Revisited - Binge | 6
Hollywood execs underestimated Netflix, thinking its ad-free binge-watching model was a risky move. Yet, studies revealed that binge-watchers develop a deep emotional connection to the platform. The pivotal release of 'House of Cards' marked a turning point in streaming history, challenging traditional viewing habits. HBO's response with hits like 'Game of Thrones' showcases the competitive landscape of content creation. The rise of viewer preferences for binge-watching reshapes the industry, signaling a new era of media consumption.
12 snips
May 13, 2019 • 26min
Netflix vs Blockbuster Revisited - HBO Gets in the Game | 5
This discussion highlights HBO's evolution from a small cable provider to a powerhouse in original programming. Key moments include the groundbreaking impact of 'The Sopranos' and a look at how 'Six Feet Under' transformed storytelling on television. The podcast also underscores HBO's commitment to creative freedom, which led to critical acclaim for shows like 'The Wire.' As iconic series reach their conclusions, the conversation explores HBO's current challenges in a rapidly changing landscape of premium content.
May 8, 2019 • 22min
Netflix vs Blockbuster Revisited - The Digital Divide | 4
Reed Hastings, co-founder and former CEO of Netflix, shares insights on transforming the company into a streaming powerhouse during challenging times. He discusses the power of algorithms over content in understanding viewer habits. Hastings reflects on Netflix’s rise amid skepticism from traditional media and the pivotal moments that capitalized on the cord-cutting trend. He candidly addresses controversies, including the backlash from separating DVD and streaming services and the lessons learned from public missteps.
7 snips
May 6, 2019 • 22min
Netflix vs Blockbuster Revisited - Dirty Tricks | 3
In a battle of wits, Blockbuster employed sneaky tactics, like sending spies disguised as housewives to infiltrate Netflix. The rivalry intensified with Blockbuster's attempts to replicate Netflix's success through questionable methods. At the Sundance Film Festival, bold strategies from both companies played out against the backdrop of an evolving entertainment landscape. Meanwhile, Netflix's innovative approaches launched it toward a bright future, hinting at aspirations to disrupt traditional media even further.
