Acquired

Mitch Lasky, a legendary gaming investor with pivotal stakes in Riot Games and Discord, teams up with Blake Robbins, Benchmark principal and co-host of the GameCraft podcast. They dive into the evolution of gaming business models, tracing the journey from niche markets to mainstream dominance. The duo explores the rise of free-to-play games and subscription services, along with the critical role of digital platforms like Steam. They also discuss the impact of AI on game development and the burgeoning landscape of esports as a vivid marketing tool.

Explore Sega's fascinating rise as a gaming powerhouse in the early '90s, when it dethroned Nintendo with the Genesis. Discover the chaotic launches of the Sega CD and 32X that led to internal strife, culminating in the Dreamcast's fierce competition against the PlayStation 2. Delve into Sega’s unexpected shift from hardware to a focus on game publishing, influenced by financial struggles and strategic missteps. This captivating narrative reveals how a giant fell and what it means for the gaming landscape today.

Discover Nintendo's epic rise and fall in the gaming industry, from dominating the market with the NES to a dramatic decline. The Game Boy emerges as a surprising savior, showcasing innovative marketing strategies and appealing to adult gamers. Explore fierce rivalries, notably with Sega, and pivotal moments like the acquisition of Tetris. Delve into Nintendo's struggle to adapt amid shifting landscapes and its triumphant return with the Switch. Speculations about their future and legacy offer a thought-provoking conclusion to this captivating journey.

Hamilton Helmer, author of "Seven Powers," and Chenyi Shi from Strategy Capital dive into how companies can successfully build second business lines. They share a research-based playbook, discussing the fine balance between staying on a successful path and branching out. Insights from giants like Amazon and Nvidia illustrate why some thrive while others falter. The duo emphasizes the importance of a robust strategic framework and understanding market dynamics, alongside real-world examples to help founders navigate their growth challenges.

In this conversation, David Senra, host of the Founders Podcast and an expert on entrepreneurial biographies, shares his inspiring insights. He recounts a meaningful dinner with Charlie Munger, emphasizing mentorship's impact on success. The discussion delves into the evolution of podcasting, the complexities of monetization, and the importance of personal branding. Additionally, they explore the resilience of entrepreneurs through generations and the unexpected dominance of video games in media, highlighting lessons from history that resonate today.

Discover the surprising origins of Nintendo, starting as a playing card company and evolving into a gaming giant. Dive into the transformational leadership of Hiroshi Yamauchi, who never played a video game himself. Explore the rise of iconic games like Donkey Kong, changing gameplay narratives and introducing beloved characters like Mario. The discussion also touches on innovative strategies that revitalized the gaming industry in the 80s, showcasing how Nintendo turned challenges into incredible successes and shaped modern gaming culture.

Discover the fascinating journey of LVMH, from a $15 million investment to the world's largest luxury empire. Explore how Bernard Arnault reshaped the sector with innovative strategies while unearthing intriguing tales involving Nazi spies and celebrity feuds. Dive into the evolution of iconic brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton, the complexities of luxury marketing, and the impact of emerging markets. Plus, let's speculate on the future leadership of this powerhouse—who will fill those prestigious shoes?

The journey of the NFL reveals its transformation from a modest midwestern league to a global media giant. The podcast dives into its cultural significance, showcasing the rise in popularity fueled by television and innovative strategies. It tackles moral controversies, from player safety to racial issues, and highlights iconic figures like Jim Thorpe and Joe Namath. The fierce rivalry between the NFL and AFL reshaped the game, while evolving media partnerships have defined its status in American culture. Will changing audience preferences challenge its future?

Cozy up for a year-end recap, where the hosts reflect on significant moments in tech and their favorite things of 2022. They share insights on the evolving landscape of security in startups and how social media is changing the music industry. Personal anecdotes highlight the original iPhone's impact and the role of technology in retail innovation, while discussions on podcast production reveal the creative balance they strive for. Finally, they celebrate community engagement and recommend impactful reads that shaped their perspectives.

Ben Thompson, founder of Stratechery, shares insights celebrating a decade of his influential work at the crossroads of business and technology. He discusses pioneering subscription models that have shaped digital media, and the evolution of Stratechery into a broader content platform. Thompson elaborates on navigating audience engagement, balancing subscriber dynamics, and the transformative impact of tech on venture capital. Personal anecdotes add depth as he reflects on his journey and the cultural nuances that influence content creation.