Acquired

In this engaging discussion, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, an acclaimed actor and founder of HitRecord, alongside Brian Koppelman, a talented showrunner known for Billions, delve into the adaptation of Uber's tumultuous story into their series, Super Pumped. They enthusiastically unpack the challenges of crafting compelling narratives from real-life events and the responsibility of storytellers in today's culture. They also reflect on innovative techniques used during filming and the dynamic interplay between ambition and morality within the entrepreneurial landscape.

Brendan Eich, CEO of the Brave Browser, is a pivotal figure in web history, credited with inventing JavaScript and shaping both Netscape and Mozilla. In this engaging discussion, he covers the Brave browser's unique approach to user privacy using attention tokens and its impact on online advertising. Brendan also dives into the evolution of browsers, the ongoing 'browser wars,' and how Brave is navigating the crypto landscape. His insights into integrating AI with cryptocurrency and maintaining user privacy in a tech-dominated world are particularly thought-provoking.

Peloton's journey is a rollercoaster of highs and lows, from pandemic darling to a significant stock downturn. The arrival of new CEO Barry McCarthy promises fresh leadership amid recent layoffs. The podcast also delves into Peloton's innovative marketing strategies, the rise in subscriptions during the pandemic, and the controversial holiday commercial that unexpectedly boosted their brand. Their evolution from boutique fitness to a powerful business model emphasizes community, while financial challenges and strategic partnerships are explored in depth.

This deep dive into Taylor Swift's career showcases her as the unrivaled force redefining the music industry. Explore her strategic re-recordings to reclaim ownership and the impact of her chart dominance on artist rights. Discover her early struggles in Nashville, her connections with fans through social media, and the significance of her groundbreaking songwriting. The discussion also highlights the economic implications of streaming on artists, painting a vivid picture of Swift's unique position in the realm of celebrity and artistry.

Michael Ovitz, the mastermind behind Creative Artists Agency, transformed Hollywood and shaped talent representation practices. He dives into the genesis of iconic films like Jurassic Park and discusses the evolution of the entertainment industry, revealing the dynamic between talent and studios. Ovitz reflects on CAA's innovative strategies, including their unique teamwork approach and international relationships that changed the landscape. The conversation also touches on emerging technologies like AI and cybersecurity, showcasing how creativity and adaptability drive success.

Sam Bankman-Fried, the innovative CEO of FTX, joins writer Mario Gabriele for an enlightening discussion. They explore the astonishing rise of FTX, which reached a $25 billion valuation in just two years, and discuss strategic insights into the crypto exchange landscape. Topics include lucrative arbitrage opportunities, FTX’s unique branding approach, and the complexities of risk management in trading. They reflect on regulatory challenges and the future of cryptocurrency, offering a thought-provoking look at the industry's evolving dynamics.

Hamilton Helmer, the author of "Seven Powers" and an esteemed strategy consultant, joins to discuss his framework for building enduring companies. He highlights how timing and market power shaped the success of giants like Apple and Microsoft. The conversation dives into the importance of product-market fit and sustainable pricing strategies, with case studies from Uber and Slack. Helmer also explores the dynamics of switching costs in SaaS and the future evolution of technology sectors, emphasizing leadership’s role in innovation.

Packy McCormick, founder of 'Not Boring,' dives into the intriguing intersection of media and entrepreneurship. He explores how creators can evolve into companies and the potential of one person leveraging the internet. McCormick shares insights on building personal brands, the balance between authenticity and monetization, and his own experiences in navigating content creation. The discussion also highlights innovative sponsorship strategies and the transformative impact of AI on productivity and creative processes. Tune in for a deep dive into modern media dynamics!

Brinton Johns and Jon Bathgate, public equities investors at NZS Capital, dive into the intriguing world of complexity investing and its intersection with the semiconductor market. They discuss how complexity theory shapes their investment philosophy and why adaptability is crucial in uncertain markets. The conversation then shifts to the critical role semiconductors play in the information age, touches on innovations like silicon carbide, and highlights the landscape of key industry players. Their insights reveal the intricate dynamics that drive both technology and investment decisions.

The gripping saga of Standard Oil and John D. Rockefeller concludes with a deep dive into his groundbreaking philanthropic efforts. Listeners learn about the monumental antitrust challenges leading to the breakup of Standard Oil and the mixed legacy that follows. The hosts discuss Rockefeller's complex character amid personal and corporate upheavals, and how his strategies shaped both business and philanthropy. They also explore the lessons from this historical monopoly, drawing parallels to current tech giants and the future of competition.