Staying motivated and informed is crucial for entrepreneurs navigating the dynamic world of business. While books, podcasts, and seminars are common learning tools, TV shows can also offer a blend of entertainment, education, and inspiration. Here’s a list of must-watch TV shows for entrepreneurs should consider adding to their watchlist.
1. Shark Tank
Platform: ABC, Hulu, Netflix
Why Watch: Entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of seasoned investors, or “sharks,” hoping to secure funding. The show offers valuable lessons in pitching, negotiation, and understanding investor mindsets. Entrepreneurs can observe real-world examples of what works and what doesn’t when it comes to convincing investors, and gain insights into different business models and industries. Additionally, the feedback from the sharks provides crucial takeaways about product viability, market strategy, and financial management.
2. The Profit
Platform: CNBC, Peacock
Why Watch: Business mogul Marcus Lemonis invests in struggling businesses and helps turn them around. It’s an excellent showcase of business analysis, leadership strategies, and operational improvements. The show delves into the ‘three Ps’ of business success: people, process, and product. Lemonis’ hands-on approach highlights the importance of leadership, teamwork, and adaptability in overcoming business challenges. Entrepreneurs can learn how to identify weaknesses within their own ventures and implement effective strategies for growth.
3. Silicon Valley
Platform: HBO Max
Why Watch: This satirical comedy offers a humorous yet insightful look into the tech startup ecosystem, shedding light on the challenges of innovation, venture capital, and scaling a business. The characters’ experiences reflect real-world issues faced by startups, such as managing rapid growth, dealing with competition, and navigating complex investor relationships. The show also underscores the importance of resilience, creativity, and strong leadership in the face of adversity.
4. Dragons’ Den
Platform: BBC, YouTube
Why Watch: The UK’s version of Shark Tank, this show features entrepreneurs pitching to potential investors. It provides international perspectives on entrepreneurship and investment strategies. Viewers can compare pitching styles, negotiation tactics, and investor expectations across different markets. The diverse range of products and businesses presented on the show offers inspiration and valuable lessons on how to effectively communicate a business idea.
5. Undercover Boss
Platform: CBS, Paramount+
Why Watch: CEOs disguise themselves to work alongside their employees, offering a unique view into company operations, employee satisfaction, and leadership from the ground up. The show emphasizes the importance of empathy, effective communication, and understanding the day-to-day operations of a business. Entrepreneurs can gain insights into how to foster a positive workplace culture, improve employee morale, and identify areas for operational improvement.
6. StartUp
Platform: Crackle, Netflix
Why Watch: A gripping drama about launching a tech startup under unconventional circumstances. It explores the complexities of entrepreneurship, ethical dilemmas, and the challenges of growth. The series highlights the importance of adaptability, strategic thinking, and maintaining a clear vision despite external pressures. Entrepreneurs can learn about the risks and rewards of startup life, as well as the significance of building strong, trustworthy teams.
7. Billions
Platform: Showtime, Hulu
Why Watch: A high-stakes drama that delves into the world of finance, investments, and power dynamics. It offers strategic business insights and lessons in negotiation, leadership, and risk-taking. The show explores the psychological aspects of business, including ambition, competition, and the pursuit of success. Entrepreneurs can gain a deeper understanding of financial markets, investment strategies, and the ethical considerations involved in high-stakes decision-making.
8. Dirty Money
Platform: Netflix
Why Watch: This documentary series exposes corporate greed and corruption. It’s a critical reminder of the importance of ethics, transparency, and responsible leadership in business. Each episode investigates a different case of corporate misconduct, providing lessons on the consequences of unethical behavior. Entrepreneurs can learn about the importance of maintaining integrity, building a trustworthy brand, and the long-term impact of business decisions on reputation and sustainability.
9. Mad Men
Platform: AMC, Prime Video
Why Watch: A deep dive into the advertising industry of the 1960s, showcasing creativity, branding, and the evolution of marketing strategies that are still relevant today. The show highlights the power of storytelling, consumer psychology, and the art of persuasion in building successful brands. Entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from the characters’ innovative approaches to marketing, as well as their ability to adapt to changing industry trends.
10. Planet of the Apps
Platform: Apple TV
Why Watch: Entrepreneurs pitch their app ideas to celebrity mentors and venture capitalists. It offers insights into app development, marketing, and securing investments in the tech space. The show provides a behind-the-scenes look at the startup process, from idea conception to product launch. Entrepreneurs can learn about the importance of user experience, market research, and effective pitching techniques in the competitive tech industry.
11. Suits
Platform: USA Network, Netflix
Why Watch: This legal drama revolves around a talented college dropout who starts working at a prestigious law firm despite lacking a law degree. It showcases the importance of problem-solving, negotiation skills, and strategic thinking. Entrepreneurs can gain insights into contract law, business litigation, and the critical role that legal expertise plays in protecting a business.
12. House of Lies
Platform: Showtime
Why Watch: A satirical look at management consulting firms and the corporate world. The show delves into the tactics used by consultants to secure clients and deliver results, offering lessons on business strategy, negotiation, and leadership. Entrepreneurs can learn about the nuances of client management, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and the ethical dilemmas often faced in business.
13. The Men Who Built America
Platform: History Channel, Prime Video
Why Watch: A docuseries highlighting the lives of influential American industrialists like Rockefeller, Carnegie, and Ford. It explores their entrepreneurial journeys, business strategies, and the impact they had on shaping modern America. Entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from their resilience, innovative thinking, and ability to turn challenges into opportunities.
14. Empire
Platform: Fox, Hulu
Why Watch: A drama centered around a family-run music empire, exploring themes of leadership, succession, and business rivalry. The show provides insights into brand management, marketing strategies, and the complexities of family-run businesses. Entrepreneurs can learn about the importance of adaptability, strong leadership, and maintaining a clear vision in a competitive industry.
15. How I Made My Millions
Platform: CNBC
Why Watch: This documentary series features real-life entrepreneurs who turned simple ideas into multimillion-dollar businesses. It offers practical lessons on innovation, perseverance, and the entrepreneurial journey. Each episode provides inspiring stories and actionable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the business world.
Final Thoughts
These TV shows for entrepreneurs provide a blend of real-world business strategies, leadership lessons, and entrepreneurial inspiration. Whether you’re looking for motivation, strategic insights, or just a break from your busy schedule, these shows can offer valuable takeaways for any entrepreneur. By analyzing the successes and failures depicted, entrepreneurs can gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape.
