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
56 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.
31 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.
34 snips
Nov 14, 2024 • 36min
Slicing Into New York's Pizza | 6
Join Dan Pashman, a three-time James Beard Award-winning host, and Melissa McCart, Eater NYC reporter and food writing expert, as they dive into the New York pizza scene. They tackle the debate over East Coast vs. West Coast pizza, discuss the evolving styles and pricing, and put the hot honey pizza trend to the test. Expect insights on personal preferences, the impact of social media on dining, and the thrilling rivalry between iconic pizzerias Scar's and Roberta's. It's a flavorful showdown you don’t want to miss!
32 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 36min
Beyond Meat vs Impossible Burger | Interview | 5
Join Jason Cartalian and Michael Keller, co-hosts of the Vegan Hacks podcast, as they dive into the dramatic fall of plant-based giants Beyond Meat and Impossible Burger. They discuss the evolution of veggie burgers and how consumer tastes are shifting. The duo discusses contrasting marketing strategies, highlighting Beyond Meat's health angle and celebrity endorsements against Impossible Foods' meat-centric approach. They also explore the companies' financial struggles, potential partnerships, and the cultural rise of veganism, offering a peek into the future of meatless alternatives.
19 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 35min
Beyond Meat vs Impossible Burger | Break from the Herd | 4
Ethan Brown, the CEO of Beyond Meat, dives into the fluctuating fortunes of the plant-based meat industry. He discusses the challenges of celebrity endorsements, particularly the backlash from Kim Kardashian’s partnership. Financial strains lead to layoffs and innovation struggles, prompting a new focus on healthier recipes. The conversation also highlights efforts to counteract negative narratives from the beef industry, with advancements like Beyond Four aiming to promote sustainability and nutritional value. The competition with Impossible Foods adds spice to their marketing strategies.
13 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 32min
Beyond Meat vs Impossible Burger | Beefing Up, Chowing Down | 3
In 2019, the fierce rivalry between plant-based meat giants intensifies as they respond to criticisms from the beef industry. Tensions rise with an aggressive Super Bowl ad campaign, showcasing the battle for market dominance. Internal struggles surface at Impossible Foods as leaders clash over rapid growth strategies. Meanwhile, Beyond Meat faces financial hurdles and seeks partnerships with major fast-food chains. Amid rising consumer demand, both companies navigate misinformation and shift their marketing tactics to capture overwhelmed consumers.
9 snips
Oct 23, 2024 • 31min
Beyond Meat vs Impossible Burger | Flame Broiled | 2
In 2016, two innovators, Ethan and Pat, master the game of plant-based burgers. Beyond Meat catches eyes on Wall Street while Impossible Foods enlists celebrity chefs to elevate its brand. Tension rises as both companies navigate challenges from traditional meat ranchers and face issues like supply shortages. The excitement of Impossible's launch in New York contrasts with Beyond Meat's growing popularity at Whole Foods. The battle heats up as legislation emerges, and demand for plant-based options skyrockets.
14 snips
Oct 16, 2024 • 38min
Beyond Meat vs Impossible Burger | Pressure Cooker | 1
In 2008, two innovators named Brown, unaware of each other's endeavors, aimed to tackle climate change through plant-based meat. Beyond Meat’s first breakthrough was a fake chicken strip, while Impossible Foods emerged two years later, igniting a fierce rivalry. The podcast dives into the pioneers' backgrounds, their sustainability missions, and the challenges they faced. Innovations like engineered yeast for flavor and groundbreaking taste tests reveal the competitive spirit driving the plant-based meat revolution.
Oct 10, 2024 • 39min
The Smash Burger Smackdown | 5
Join Josh Scherer and Nicole Enayati from Mythical Kitchen, alongside Eater LA's Mona Holmes, as they dive into the juicy world of smash burgers. They explore the history and evolution of this trend, debating the science behind crafting the perfect one. With taste tests of iconic California burgers, they discuss sustainable beef and rising plant-based options. The crew also reflects on cultural significance, food trends, and the shift toward independent eateries, sparking spirited food debates sure to tantalize any burger lover!
Oct 9, 2024 • 41min
Vogue: Once and Forever | Fashion's Next Big Thing | 4
Rachel Tashjian, a Washington Post fashion writer and Opulent Tips newsletter author, joins David to discuss the shifting dynamics of fashion journalism. They explore how social media creators are now driving trends, and what this means for legacy outlets like Vogue. Tashjian dives into the evolution of fashion publications, emphasizing the need for innovation amidst digital adaptation. The conversation also highlights how the industry is redefining its narrative and engaging with younger audiences while reflecting on the nostalgia for past styles.
