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
10 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 47min
🏀 Air Jordans: How MJ's Mom Made the Deal of the Century | 9
Explore the fascinating world of Air Jordans, the sneaker that redefined sports marketing. Discover how Michael Jordan’s mother played a pivotal role in securing the iconic deal with Nike. Delve into the rise of Nike from its humble beginnings and the challenges faced in the basketball market. Learn about the revolutionary partnership that transformed athlete endorsements and the story behind the Air Jordan’s explosive success. Enjoy a humorous twist on lost Air Jordans and look forward to the next intriguing tale with a sneak peek!
24 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 46min
📷 Polaroid: Invented (sort of) by a 3-Year-Old | 8
Discover the origins of instant photography, sparked by a curious 3-year-old's question. Uncover how Polaroid went from beloved innovator to fierce rival with Kodak. Explore the creative minds who embraced Polaroid, from Ansel Adams to Andy Warhol. Learn why Steve Jobs was enamored with this game-changing technology. Plus, find out the truth behind the infamous shaking of your Polaroid snaps. It's a nostalgic journey through innovation that shaped the way we capture moments.
Nov 26, 2024 • 46min
🛁 Jacuzzi: Legend of the Life-Saving Tub | 7
Dive into the origins of the Jacuzzi, where a family of Italian brothers turned a simple idea into a luxury icon. Discover how their struggles and innovations shifted a medical device into the ultimate status symbol. Hear about the sensational marketing tactics that propelled the brand during the Panama Pacific Fair and the impact of 'Queen for a Day.' Explore the fascinating evolution from a necessity for health to a must-have for relaxation. It’s a heartwarming tale of resilience, creativity, and legacy.
22 snips
Nov 19, 2024 • 46min
👖 Levi's 501s: The World’s 1st Jeans | 6
Discover the unexpected connections between Old West gold miners, biker gangs, and Marilyn Monroe through the iconic Levi's 501 jeans. Learn how a struggling tailor's innovation birthed a global denim empire worth over $70 billion. Uncover the jeans' transformation from rugged workwear to symbols of rebellion and freedom. Explore the clever marketing strategies that propelled Levi's to outshine giants like Nike and Adidas. Dive into the timeless evolution of these classic jeans that continues to resonate in today's fashion landscape.
21 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 46min
🌶️ Sriracha: From Smuggled Gold to Hot Sauce Billions | 5
Discover the spicy journey of Sriracha sauce and its inventor, David Tran, a Vietnamese refugee who turned his culinary skills into a billion-dollar empire. From smuggling gold bars to fund his dream, David’s dedication helped him dominate the hot sauce market without any marketing costs. Learn about the challenges he faced, including massive pepper shortages, and his commitment to prioritizing customers over profits. Dive into the cultural significance of Sriracha, often dubbed the 'LA ketchup,' and explore how it revolutionized American cuisine.
Nov 5, 2024 • 42min
🚙 Jeep: The Car That Saved The World | 4
The Jeep is not just a vehicle; it’s a cultural icon that symbolizes American pride and community. Its origins date back to an intense competition among automakers to create a versatile military vehicle during WWII. Remarkably, a freelance designer played a key role, almost going unrecognized. The show explores how the Jeep transformed from a military necessity to a summer adventure staple. From its appearances in films to being the most patriotic brand, the Jeep's influence spans far beyond the battlefield, marking its place in pop culture.
21 snips
Oct 29, 2024 • 45min
👣 The Birkenstock Arizona: From Flower Power to Fashion Week | 3
Discover the surprising journey of the Birkenstock Arizona, a sandal that has graced the feet of everyone from John Lennon to Barbie. Hear about its humble beginnings in an 18th-century cobbler shop and how it became a fashion staple. Learn about the impact of cultural movements, from the 1960s Flower Power to today’s celebrity endorsements. Dive into the fascinating strategies that helped the brand thrive and amass a $9 billion IPO valuation along the way. It's a compelling blend of history, fashion, and cultural significance!
26 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 42min
🍄 Super Mario Bros: Nintendo’s Infinite Game | 2
Dive into the colorful origins of Mario, the world's most successful video game character, and discover the surprising connections to Donkey Kong and Popeye. Explore Nintendo’s unique strategy that emphasizes creativity over competition, shaping its evolution from playing cards to a gaming powerhouse. Uncover the innovative birth of Super Mario Bros., where limitations sparked creativity. Enjoy quirky trivia about Mario and the staggering auction prices for rare memorabilia. Get ready for a fun journey through gaming history!
17 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 42min
🍟 The Happy Meal: A Delicious McMystery | 1
The Happy Meal, with over 35 billion sold, is more than just food; it plays a pivotal role in childhood nostalgia. Discover its debated origins, from a busy mom in Guatemala to an ad man in Kansas City. Dive into McDonald's 'window of loyalty' strategy and learn how they became a leading toy distributor, even outshining Hasbro. The podcast takes you through a journey that reveals the cultural impact of this iconic meal, reshaping fast food forever.
Oct 8, 2024 • 3min
Introducing: The Best Idea Yet
Follow The Best Idea Yet on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts starting October 15th. Listen early and ad-free on Wondery+ starting October 8th. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App or on Apple Podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
