Acquired

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.

Join legendary investor Charlie Munger, known for his groundbreaking partnership with Warren Buffett at Berkshire Hathaway, in a rare and insightful conversation. He shares reflections on his nearly 50-year career and offers timeless investment advice. Munger discusses the similarities between gambling and trading, critiques algorithmic practices, and emphasizes long-term investment strategies with companies like Costco. The wisdom he imparts highlights the importance of trust in luxury brands and the value of patience in recognizing profitable opportunities.

Jensen Huang, Co-founder and CEO of Nvidia, discusses the groundbreaking journey of the company from graphics chips to AI leader. He reveals the surprising motivations behind entering the data center market and shares his thoughts on risk-taking in business decisions. Jensen also dives into the importance of collaboration, innovation, and strategic shifts that defined Nvidia's evolution. Personal anecdotes add a relatable touch, offering insights into the emotional landscape of entrepreneurship and the significance of navigating emerging markets.

Nvidia's evolution in the AI landscape unfolds with their strategic acquisition of Mellanox and the impact on data centers. The rise of large language models and the transformative power of the AlexNet algorithm are highlighted. The fascinating shift from nonprofit OpenAI to a thriving for-profit entity showcases AI's growing traction. Examining sustainability in AI cloud computing, Nvidia emphasizes energy-efficient operations while the company's stock experienced wild fluctuations. The discussion invites listeners to ponder the future of AI and its pervasive influence in everyday life.

Discover the secrets behind Costco's incredible success and unique business model. The company combines rock-bottom prices with a wealthy customer base, while also prioritizing employee welfare. Learn how their limited SKU approach sells 15 times more per item compared to competitors like Walmart. Dive into the origins of Costco and the legacy of retail pioneer Saul Price. Plus, explore customer-centric policies and vertical integration strategies that keep prices low and satisfaction high. It's a fascinating look at a retail giant that challenges conventional norms!

Discover the captivating story behind Nike's rise from a small company to an athletic empire. Explore the unique origins of the iconic swoosh and the innovative Waffle Trainer. Uncover the drama of Phil Knight's early days and the pivotal moments that reshaped the brand. Dive into the impact of Michael Jordan on sneaker culture and the evolution of the Air Jordan line. The podcast also sheds light on Nike's marketing genius, from controversial advertising campaigns to navigating the challenges of global outsourcing and labor practices.

Discover the complexities surrounding Porsche, from its impressive blend of luxury and practicality to its dark origins linked to the Nazi regime. With insights from Doug DeMuro, explore the brand's transformation through iconic models like the 911 and how strategic partnerships, particularly with Volkswagen, shaped its dominance. The discussion also touches on Porsche's adaptation to electric vehicles and the balance between mass-market SUVs and prestige. Dive into the rich tapestry of automotive history, family dynamics, and the essence of luxury branding.

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber and former Expedia leader, shares insights into his transformative journey at Uber. He discusses how he turned the company around from financial turmoil to a cashflow-positive powerhouse, tripling revenue to over $30B. Khosrowshahi recounts critical lessons from his career in leadership during tough economic times, including the balance of mentorship and adaptability. He also explores the successful integration of Uber's rideshare and Eats services, highlighting the strategic innovations that have kept the company competitive in a bustling market.