

Acquired
Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal
Every company has a story.
Learn the playbooks that built the world’s greatest companies — and how you can apply them.
Learn the playbooks that built the world’s greatest companies — and how you can apply them.
Episodes
Mentioned books

1,348 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 4h 7min
Google: The AI Company
Google, the pioneer of transformer technology, finds itself grappling with the surprising rise of startups like OpenAI. The journey traces Google's early AI efforts, the creation of groundbreaking models, and the talent exodus that fueled competitors. With the launch of ChatGPT, the company faced a 'code red' and struggled to keep pace. Meanwhile, Waymo evolved from a bold concept to a commercial success. As Google seeks to merge Brain and DeepMind into Gemini, it confronts the challenge of innovating while safeguarding its lucrative search business.

2,821 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 4h 12min
Alphabet Inc.
Explore how Google transformed from a search engine to a powerhouse of innovation. The rise of Gmail, Maps, and Android showcases their groundbreaking strategies. Discover the challenges of Google Plus and how it influenced the company's direction. Marvel at YouTube's explosive growth and its impact on digital media. Analyze Google's advertising dominance and evolving business model, all while anticipating the future powered by AI. This dynamic narrative illustrates the highs and lows of a tech giant's journey in redefining user experience.

1,380 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Jamie Dimon Interview
In a compelling conversation, Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase, reflects on his journey from being fired at Citigroup to leading the largest bank in the U.S. He shares insights on the evolution of JPMorgan Chase and the 'fortress balance sheet' strategy that underpins its success. Dimon discusses lessons from the 2008 financial crisis and recent banking challenges, emphasizing the significance of risk management and the need for ethical practices in finance. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with personal anecdotes and industry wisdom!

3,776 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 3h 40min
Google: The Origin of Search
Learn how Google transformed from a Stanford project called BackRub into a global icon and staple of the internet. Discover the innovative algorithms like PageRank that set Google apart amid a crowded search engine landscape. Hear about the pivotal partnerships and strategic decisions that propelled its growth, including a lucrative deal with AOL. The podcast also delves into concerns over AI competition and investors' skepticism despite Google's robust profits, painting a picture of a tech giant at a crossroads.

1,230 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 2h 59min
The Steve Ballmer Interview
Join Steve Ballmer, the dynamic former CEO of Microsoft and owner of the LA Clippers, for an exhilarating chat. He shares insights from his 34 years at Microsoft, including his pivotal role in the IBM DOS deal. The discussion dives into missed opportunities in mobile and search, his complex relationship with Bill Gates, and why he hasn't sold his Microsoft stock, which skyrocketed his wealth. Ballmer also opens up about his passion for the Clippers and the innovative design of their new arena, promising plenty of energy and fun throughout!

4,214 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 3h 57min
Epic Systems (MyChart)
Discover the fascinating world of Epic Systems, the healthcare software giant run from a rural Wisconsin farm. The whimsical campus features everything from Hogwarts replicas to a massive auditorium. Learn about founder Judy Faulkner, a pioneering self-made woman committed to never selling her company. Explore how Epic's MyChart revolutionizes patient interactions and the intricate dynamics of EMR adoption in the U.S. healthcare landscape. The podcast dives deep into Epic's unique culture, market impact, and the ambitious innovations shaping healthcare.

1,556 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 4h 26min
Indian Premier League Cricket
Discover the explosive growth of the Indian Premier League, now valued at $16 billion and poised to rival major sports leagues like the NFL. Delve into the cultural significance of cricket in India, where the sport is a national obsession. Uncover the fascinating business strategies transforming the IPL and its integration with Bollywood glamor. Explore innovations in broadcasting and sponsorships, as well as the intricacies of player contracts and salary caps. The excitement surrounding cricket and its evolving media rights paints a lively picture of a dynamic sporting revolution.

3,045 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 4h 60min
Rolex
Discover the paradox of Rolex, a luxury brand that thrives on the demand for outdated mechanical watches over digital alternatives. Learn about its extravagant comparison to the Birkin bag and the surprising origins of its founder. Delve into the brand's evolution during key historical moments like World Wars I and II. Explore the innovative marketing behind the Oyster dive watch and the cultural significance of the Daytona. Uncover how Rolex maintains its prestige while producing over a million units annually, all while giving back through philanthropy.

1,040 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 2h 54min
TSMC Founder Morris Chang
Morris Chang, the visionary founder of TSMC, shares his remarkable journey in the semiconductor industry. He recounts pivotal moments, like winning Apple's chip business and a critical 2009 dispute with NVIDIA. Chang emphasizes the importance of relationships in navigating business challenges and the strategic shifts TSMC made to meet technological demands. His insights into the rise of TSMC as a leading foundry and the broader semiconductor ecosystem are both enlightening and entertaining, making for a compelling conversation!

2,299 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 2h 28min
TSMC (Remastered)
Explore the incredible history of TSMC, a semiconductor giant founded by Morris Chang, and its essential role in today’s tech landscape. Discover the unexpected rise of TSMC amid global chip shortages and the industry's early challenges, from vacuum tubes to silicon. Delve into the strategic partnerships with tech titans like Apple and the groundbreaking innovations like extreme ultraviolet lithography. The episode highlights TSMC's transformative impact, impressive growth statistics, and the dramatic evolution of the semiconductor ecosystem.