It’s 2022, and there’s a ton of programming to take your mind off work. Whether it’s an entertaining movie or a TV series that keeps you coming back, there’s a lot to watch. That said, what if you’re in the mood for a TV series about startups? You know, one that digs a little bit into the business itself, but in a thought-provoking, smile-inducing way?
You’re in luck. Whether it’s an established show that’s still going strong or a fresh new take on the world of business, there are plenty of fun programs out there. It’s so hard to pick five, but we whittled down the choices so that you know exactly where to go.
Without further ado, here are our five favorite selections for a good TV series about startups. Make some popcorn, grab your favorite drink, and indulge!
A Favorite Startup Show – WeCrashed
Exclusively on Apple TV+, WeCrashed is a drama-filled story surrounding one of the most controversial startups out there – WeWork. Remember them?
Jared Leto (Morbius) portrays Adam Neumann, the founder of the failed working company. He managed to raise a whopping $47 billion in equity for WeWork, alongside his wife Rebecca (played by Anne Hathaway). Together, they’re reveling in its success, but just how long can it last?
What’s great about WeCrashed is that it doesn’t just cover the rise of the startup, but how it remarkably came crashing down to the ground. This includes the controversial details that came with it, as well as a falling out between Adam and Rebecca. It’s really a great lesson to learn, especially if you’re looking to start a new business yourself.
You can check out the show on AppleTV+ right now.
A Favorite Reality Startup Show – Shark Tank
We’ve talked about Shark Tank in the past – and for good reason. It’s an astounding reality series where inventors galore come up with great ideas, hoping that one of several pitchmen (and women) will accept them with funding. It’s a lot trickier than it sounds, however. Not to mention some of these ideas are just…bonkers.
That said, there’s a thing or two you could learn from Shark Tank when it comes to business practices. You get an idea of what investors are looking for, as well as a perspective on how not to present business ideas. Then there are negotiations, which can teach you about winning someone over, if you’re good, or if you’re lucky.
When it comes to startup show power, Shark Tank has it in spades. And it’s not going anywhere, as it’s already been renewed for a 14th season. Talk about staying power.
A Rising Star Startup Show – Planet of the Apps
Another hit reality show where the name of the game is the best pitch, Planet of the Apps works much differently. Instead of a prolonged period of time to pitch a product, would-be creators only have sixty seconds. That’s right, just ONE minute.
And what’s more, the judges on this startup show aren’t unfamiliar faces. The panel includes actress Gwyneth Paltrow, actress Jessica Alba, performer William Adams (Will.I.Am), and Gary Vaynerchuk. They’re a tough group to impress, but we have seen success stories emerge.
The show started as a darling on Apple Music before moving to Apple TV+, and makes for fine viewing when you aren’t taking in WeCrashed. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. (Just don’t get too nervous about the small amount of time for pitches – sometimes that’s all you get in real life!)
A Startup Show with Drama Galore — Billions
There’s a right way and a wrong way to do business – and Showtime’s Billions startup show delves into both. Starring Paul Giamatti and Damian Lewis, the show features business practices galore as it focuses on the battle between two key characters.
On one side, you have U.S. Attorney Chuck Rhoades (Giamatti), who brings years of experience and ruthlessness to the table. On the other, hedge fund master Bobby “Axe” Axelrod (Lewis) awaits and isn’t backing down. Their spars over the course of past seasons are a sight to behold.
There’s a lot to learn here, especially if you’re down about expanding your search into hedge funds. But, really, you come here to watch Giamatti do his thing…because he’s amazing! Definitely add it to your watch list.
Want Some Humor With Your Startup Shows? Try Ballers
Though it recently ended with its fifth season, HBO’s Ballers is a startup show most certainly worth a watch. It shows a team of negotiators at their finest as they conduct big business around every corner – and the challenges that come with it.
Featuring a good amount of laughs to go along with its drama, Ballers benefits from a solid cast. These include Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, as well as Rob Corddry as his backup man, and John David Washington and others on board as well.
This entire TV series about startups is worth taking in, if only for Johnson’s cool-headedness under pressure and Corddry’s humorous attitude. But it also teaches you quite a bit about the world of big business – so get ready for it!
