The Best Idea Yet
Wondery
The untold stories behind the products you’re obsessed with and the bold risk-takers who made them go viral.How did Birkenstocks go from a German cobbler’s passion project 250 years ago to a starring role in the Barbie movie? Who created that bottle of Sriracha permanently living in your fridge? Did you know the Air Jordans were initially banned by the NBA, or that Super Mario became the best-selling video game character ever thanks to a strategy called “The Infinite Game?” On Wondery’s new weekly podcast The Best Idea Yet, Nick Martell and Jack Crivici-Kramer (hosts of the award-winning daily pop-business podcast, The Best One Yet [TBOY]) have identified the most viral products of all time and reveal their untold origin stories — plus the bold risk-takers who brought them to life. From the Happy Meal to Levi’s 501 jeans, come for the products you’re obsessed with, stay for the business insights that’ll make you the most interesting person at your next brunch.Follow 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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
27 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 42min
🏔️ Patagonia Fleece: The Billion Dollar Toilet Seat Cover | 19
Discover how Patagonia fleece became a staple for climbers and venture capitalists alike. Yvon Chouinard, the founder, aimed for outdoor adventure rather than high-end fashion, all while battling his anti-corporate instincts. A quirky inspiration from toilet seat covers led to groundbreaking fabric innovations. Explore Patagonia's journey from struggling company to sustainability hero, and hear tales of thrilling climbs in Yosemite that shaped both gear and mindset. It's a fascinating blend of adventure, environmentalism, and unexpected successes.
11 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 42min
🍦Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food: A Collab Born in an Old Gas Station | 18
Discover the tasty origins of Phish Food, a philanthropic flavor born from the collaboration between Ben & Jerry and the band Phish. Learn how two college dropouts turned a dilapidated gas station into a revolutionary ice cream empire. Experience their ups and downs, including leaky roofs and moments of doubt. Explore the concept of complementary cofounders and how a Vermont-only IPO strengthened their connection to the community. This tale of innovation and social mission will leave you inspired and craving ice cream!
9 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 43min
🎩 Monopoly: The Shocking Scandal Behind the World’s Favorite Game | 17
Dive into the captivating backstory of Monopoly, a game born from a feminist critique of economic inequality. Discover how Lizzie Maggie's original vision was overshadowed by a savvy salesman who turned it into a worldwide phenomenon. Unravel the controversial legal battles and brand myths that resulted in the game's iconic status. Explore the evolution from a cautionary tale of greed to family game nights filled with ruthless competition—highlighting the chaotic fun and unexpected lessons learned through play.
17 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 45min
⚡ Red Bull: How The World Got Its Wiiings | 16
Discover the wild journey of Red Bull from a Thai pharmacy drink to a global energy powerhouse. Learn about the quirky origins of Krating Daeng and the innovative marketing that made it a sensation. Delve into the thrilling world of Flugtag, where homemade flying machines take flight in spectacular fashion. Plus, explore Felix Baumgartner's jaw-dropping stratospheric jump and how it transformed the brand's image. Uncover the humorous side of Red Bull's marketing and its unique approach to extreme sports.
12 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 44min
🎸 Fender Stratocaster: The Guitar That Invented Rock & Roll | 15
Discover how the Fender Stratocaster revolutionized music and solidified its iconic status in rock and roll. From Buddy Holly to Jimi Hendrix, this guitar has shaped generations of musicians and genres. Learn about Leo Fender's unlikely journey to creating the perfect electric guitar while dealing with personal and manufacturing struggles. Explore the deep connections between guitarists and their instruments, and why the dynamics of great bands mirror successful entrepreneurial teams.
35 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 43min
🥜 Reese’s PB Cups: From Frog Salesman to Candy Mogul | 14
Discover the sweet origins of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, born from a factory accident and a frog salesman’s ambition. Explore the delicious contrast of chocolate and peanut butter, and why our brains crave such perfect combos. Delve into H.B. Reese’s journey from financial struggles to candy mogul, alongside Milton Hershey's transformation in the chocolate industry. Learn how embracing mistakes can lead to the happiest accidents and solidify a legacy in the candy world.
11 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 46min
🐂 Oregon Trail: Tricking Kids into Liking School Since 1971 | 13
Discover the remarkable history of the longest-running video game, Oregon Trail, which has captivated millions since 1971. This innovative game, born from the creativity of three student teachers, helped shape the edutainment industry worth over $6 billion. Learn about an ambitious teacher's efforts to revive the game for modern classrooms and its transformation into a pioneering educational tool. The journey from a simple classroom project to a cultural icon is explored, highlighting how it made learning fun without a profit motive.
18 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 46min
⌚ Swatch: The $40 Watch that Saved Switerzland | 12
Discover how a colorful plastic watch saved the Swiss watch industry during the Quartz Crisis, transforming it from near collapse to vibrant success. Learn about the ingenious marketing strategies that reimagined Swatch as a fashion statement, appealing to youth culture. Delve into the bold innovations behind its simplistic yet effective design and how partnerships with artists reshaped its identity. Explore the ongoing legacy of Swatch as it navigates competition from tech gadgets while embracing nostalgia and creativity.
21 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 45min
🧱LEGO: Earth’s Biggest Toy Biz | 11
Discover the fascinating journey of LEGO from its origins in a WWII Danish workshop to becoming the biggest toy company in the world. Learn about the successful tactics that helped them thrive amidst numerous setbacks, including financial struggles and product misfires. Uncover how innovation and strategic expansion played a crucial role in their growth, and find out why durability and sustainability are now at the forefront of their mission. Plus, get insight into how pop culture influences their product lineup and engages a diverse audience.
Dec 17, 2024 • 47min
🍬 PEZ: The Cigarette-Inspired Candy | 10
Discover the surprising origins of PEZ as a smoking cessation aid and how it evolved into a candy beloved by kids and collectors alike. Hear about the clever marketing that turned it into a cultural icon and the fascinating tale of the PEZ Outlaw, who managed to rake in millions from the brand. Dive into the myths surrounding these fruity tablets, including a viral hack that could jeopardize prized collectibles. The journey of PEZ is both nostalgic and entertaining, highlighting creativity and unexpected twists in the candy industry.
