The Best Idea Yet

Explore the fascinating journey of LaCroix, the seltzer that transformed from a quiet Midwest favorite to a trendy sensation. Discover the quirky entrepreneur behind its revival and how chaos cursive sparked its marketing success. From niche to cultural icon, learn about the innovative strategies that propelled LaCroix into the hearts of health-conscious consumers and social media influencers alike. Plus, unravel the mystery of how to properly pronounce ‘pamplemousse’ in this bubbly tale of transformation.

Discover how two out-of-work Danish coders revolutionized navigation with Google Maps, all sparked by a quest for directions to a café. Their journey involved overcoming technical hurdles and attracting the attention of Google’s co-founder. Dive into the transformation from simple street views to a multi-faceted essential tool for daily life, including the surprising impact of privacy concerns. You'll also learn why correcting customers might not always be the best approach and how a nod from SNL can change everything!

Discover how a $200 investment and a pile of used denim launched Juicy Couture, thanks to two fashion-forward friends. Learn about the transformative journey from maternity wear to the iconic Juicy Tracksuit, embraced by celebrities and pop culture. Explore the role of savvy celebrity endorsements and the tracksuit’s viral resurgence in today’s Cozy-Core trend. The podcast reveals the disruption of fashion norms and the cultural impact of a comfy staple that bridged the gap between high fashion and relatable style.

Discover how the Frappuccino transitioned from a summer sales experiment to Starbucks' flagship drink. Explore the origins of this icy treat, born at a small Boston shop, and its journey into a global phenomenon. Uncover the cultural clash as Starbucks wrestled with tradition versus innovation and learn about the rise of coffee culture in Seattle. Dive into the unique blend of marketing genius and consumer trends that turned a simple idea into a billion-dollar success story.

Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird were just trying to get work. These two broke illustrators were scraping by on side hustles and instant ramen… until, one fateful night, Kevin drew a doodle to get Peter to laugh: a nunchuck-wielding turtle in a ninja mask. But this one “dumb” drawing would launch the most successful self-published, creator-owned comic in history. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles— crime-fighting reptiles named for Renaissance painters— have taken on many forms, from gritty comic to kiddie cartoon to box-office sensation. They were also the third-bestselling action figure of all time, right behind GI Joe and Star Wars. Learn how Kevin and Peter turned a “yes-and” improv game into a multi-billion-dollar franchise, and why the Remix Effect helps you go viral. (Also, we have the goods on how these Turtles came to love pizza.) Here’s why the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are the best idea yet.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterFollow The Best Idea Yet on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting www.wondery.com/links/the-best-idea-yet/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Discover the incredible journey of Lonnie Johnson, a nuclear engineer turned toy inventor, who created the Super Soaker from a surprising bathroom moment. Learn how his innovative spirit reshaped backyard fun and launched a billion-dollar industry. Hear about the challenges he faced, from flaky investors to corporate giants, and the valuable lessons in turning side hustles into realities. With insights into resilience and determination, this story is a splash of inspiration for aspiring creators everywhere!

Dive into the sugary saga of Peeps, the marshmallow treats that rose from obscurity to Easter fame! Discover how Roscoe Rodda's candy factory faced off against Hershey's and the quirky journey of these chicks. Learn about the surprising marketing strategies that boosted their popularity, including fun collaborations with brands like Crocs. Plus, uncover the sweet science behind their longevity, proving that these squishy delights can stand the test of time. A delightful blend of history, innovation, and playful chaos!

Discover how Apple revolutionized mobile technology with the iPhone, initially resisted by Steve Jobs. Uncover the chaos of the development process, including secret projects and high-stakes engineering challenges. Learn how the iPhone combined multiple devices into one, creating a new app economy and reshaping society. Hear about the wild journey from early skepticism to the spectacular launch, where one flakey prototype could have derailed everything. Delve into the stories of key innovators and the relentless drive that transformed our daily lives.

Discover the heartwarming origin of Goldfish Crackers, born from a loving gesture in Switzerland and transformed into a billion-dollar brand. Delve into the inspiring journey of a woman who built a bakery empire during the Great Depression. Explore the quirky cultural significance of these beloved snacks and their remarkable production in Willard, Ohio. With playful anecdotes and lessons on adaptability, this tale underscores how a simple cracker became a cherished part of childhood and even made its way into space!

Discover how a visionary ex-radio executive overcame skepticism to launch a revolutionary music video channel in 1981. This podcast highlights MTV's colossal impact on youth culture, its role in promoting diversity, and the evolution from music videos to reality television. Hear anecdotes about Michael Jackson's influence and the unforgettable moments from shows like Total Request Live. Dive into the playful nostalgia of high school antics as the hosts laugh about their past, all while celebrating MTV's game-changing legacy in entertainment.