Acquired

Mark Zuckerberg, the iconic founder and CEO of Meta, opens up about his journey during a live discussion at Chase Center. He shares personal insights into Meta’s strategy and reflects on the evolution from Facebook to Meta. Topics include the ambitious integration of AI and augmented reality, the challenges of innovating in a competitive landscape, and the importance of resilience. Mark emphasizes the transformative future of technology while encouraging aspiring founders to stay authentic in their pursuits.

Summer vibes kick off with excitement for a live show at the Chase Center featuring Mark Zuckerberg. The hosts reflect on their podcast's organic growth journey and the vibrant community built over nearly a decade. They share standout parenting products like a running stroller and recommend quality sunglasses for family adventures. The conversation also touches on the connection between eyewear brands and a Netflix series highlighting NFL quarterback mental health. It's a lively blend of personal stories and industry insights!

Explore Microsoft's remarkable journey from the pinnacle of success in the 90s to navigating legal battles in the early 2000s. Discover the fierce browser wars against Netscape and the complex antitrust lawsuits that reshaped its image. Uncover how Satya Nadella revitalized Microsoft’s culture, pushing for innovation and cloud solutions like Azure. Delve into the company’s ambitious forays into mobile and gaming, alongside pivotal investments like Facebook, all while grappling with the challenges of evolving technology and consumer expectations.

Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks, shares his remarkable journey in transforming a small coffee roaster into a global phenomenon. He reflects on the evolution of Starbucks from its humble beginnings to becoming a daily ritual for billions. Schultz delves into the innovative strategies behind the brand's iconic customer experience and the challenges faced during its expansion into diverse markets. He emphasizes the importance of employee well-being and community engagement, revealing the heart and soul that drive Starbucks' continued success.

This podcast dives deep into the incredible journey of Microsoft, from its humble beginnings to becoming a tech titan. It showcases Bill Gates' formative years and the visionary partnership with Paul Allen. Discover the shift from DOS to Windows and the launch of the game-changing Windows 95. The rivalry with IBM and Apple adds thrilling layers to this tech saga. The rise of personal computing, innovative business strategies, and the pivotal role of software licensing are all thrillingly captured, painting a portrait of a colossal company that reshaped the industry.

Discover the ingenious minds behind one of history's best-performing investment firms, where mathematics and AI redefine the meaning of investing. Uncover the secrets of the Medallion Fund's staggering returns while learning about the unique culture that prioritizes collaboration over competition. Dive into the transition of mathematicians from academia to the fierce world of finance and the innovative trading strategies that made Renaissance Technologies legendary. Get ready for fascinating insights into how they 'solved the market'!

Discover the unique allure of a luxury brand that thrives on exclusivity and a storied history. From the iconic Birkin and Kelly bags to the meticulous craftsmanship behind their silk scarves, the narrative unfolds on how this brand has significantly reinvented itself over generations. Learn about its commitment to tradition without flashy marketing, how it balances artisan skills with modern demand, and the intriguing family dynamics that shape its future. There's a captivating journey of luxury, resilience, and the art of waiting.

Discover how Novo Nordisk transformed the pharmaceutical landscape with its groundbreaking diabetes and obesity treatments, Ozempic and Wegovy. The narrative uncovers the company's humble beginnings and its self-disruption akin to a tech giant's 'iPhone moment.' Dive into the intense rivalry within the insulin market and the ethical dilemmas faced in its evolution. Explore the incredible journey of GLP-1 drugs, from skepticism to success, and how they are reshaping perceptions around obesity and health management. This is a story of innovation, commitment, and the future of healthcare.

David Senra, an expert in business biographies, joins the conversation to recount the highlights of a stunning 2023, celebrating major brands like LVMH and Costco. They reflect on the podcast’s evolution, the value of storytelling in business, and the growth of sponsorships. Senra shares insights on balancing personal well-being with professional success, drawing fascinating parallels between influential figures and their philosophies. The hosts also recommend holiday reads and discuss innovative gadgets, wrapping up with heartfelt gratitude for their loyal listeners.

Discover the intriguing origins of Visa, from its inception as the Bank AmeriCard to a global payment powerhouse. Uncover the complexities of its business model and the role of interchange fees, impacting both merchants and consumers. Explore how credit cards revolutionized banking and societal perceptions over decades. Learn about Visa's technological evolution and its strategic responses to challenges, including competition from tech giants like Apple. Dive into the fascinating interplay of collaboration among rival banks that shaped Visa's journey.