Building a successful business takes constant learning—and sometimes, the best lessons come from watching others' journeys. The top business TV shows give you a front-row seat to practical insights, actionable strategies, and common pitfalls to avoid.
From tech startups to corporate boardrooms, these business TV shows are a goldmine for any entrepreneur hungry to grow.
1. Shark Tank (2009- )
If there's one business TV show every entrepreneur should watch, it's Shark Tank. This reality business TV show lets you step into the shoes of aspiring entrepreneurs who pitch their business ideas to a panel of high-profile, successful investors or "sharks." You'll learn what makes a pitch successful, how to negotiate effectively, and the importance of knowing your numbers.
Each episode offers a fresh perspective on different business models, challenges, and opportunities.
What makes Shark Tank special is its ability to showcase the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. It offers a realistic view of what it takes to turn an idea into a thriving business. You can also glean practical tips on sales, marketing, and branding.
Watching the sharks challenge entrepreneurs on their strategies and decisions can teach you what investors look for and how to avoid common pitfalls.
2. Dragon's Den (2005–Present)
Dragon's Den offers a concept similar to Shark Tank but with a UK focus. Entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to the "dragons," aiming to secure investment and strategic partnerships while offering a glimpse into the UK business landscape.
What sets Dragon's Den apart is its focus on the UK market, offering a unique perspective on regional business trends and investor expectations. It's one of the best business TV shows to watch if you're interested in seeing how pitches resonate with investors in different markets.
3. The Profit (2013-2021)
Another gem in the world of business TV shows is The Profit. Marcus Lemonis, a successful entrepreneur and investor, steps in to help struggling businesses get back on track.
He dives deep into every aspect of the company – from the products and people to processes and financials. His hands-on approach and straightforward style provide a masterclass in problem-solving and turnaround strategies.
Suppose you're dealing with challenges in your own business or considering taking over an existing one. In that case, The Profit serves as a rich source of lessons on improving operations and managing finances.
You'll come away with a clearer understanding of what makes a business thrive and how small changes can lead to significant improvements.
4. Billions (2016-2023)
If you're interested in understanding the complexities of finance, power dynamics, and the corporate world, then Billions is a must-watch. This drama series takes you inside the cutthroat world of hedge funds and government regulation. The show features two powerful characters: a brilliant hedge fund manager and a determined U.S. Attorney.
While Billions is fictional, it offers valuable insights into negotiation tactics and strategic thinking that can arise in business. It shows the importance of understanding market forces and taking calculated risks.
Watching how characters navigate high-pressure situations can sharpen your strategic thinking and decision-making skills as an entrepreneur.
5. Silicon Valley (2014-2019)
Silicon Valley is a comedy series that offers a humorous yet insightful look into the chaotic world of tech startups. The story follows Richard Hendricks, a shy yet brilliant programmer who accidentally creates a revolutionary data compression algorithm.
As Richard and his quirky team at Pied Piper navigate the competitive tech scene, they face numerous challenges from both rivals and larger tech companies.
As an entrepreneur, you'll relate to the characters' struggles and triumphs as they navigate funding rounds, product development, and the rollercoaster ride of bringing a tech product to market.
The show highlights the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the ability to pivot when things don't go as planned.
6. Succession (2018-2023)
If you're fascinated by leadership, family business dynamics, and power plays, Succession is a business TV show you shouldn't miss. It follows the fictional Roy family, owners of a global media conglomerate, as they battle for control of the company amidst internal and external conflicts.
Succession provides a deep dive into complex leadership dynamics, succession planning, and the importance of strategic communication in business. While it is a drama, the show offers valuable lessons on managing conflicts and making tough decisions in times of crisis. It's particularly relevant for those running family-owned businesses or dealing with leadership transitions.
7. Undercover Boss (2010-2022)
Undercover Boss takes a unique approach by having CEOs and executives go undercover in their own companies to experience life on the front lines. This business television show is an excellent reminder of the significance of understanding your business's day-to-day operations.
As you watch each episode, you'll learn about the power of empathy, the importance of employee engagement, and the impact of leadership decisions on company culture. It's a great source of inspiration for entrepreneurs who want to foster a positive work environment and drive business growth through strong leadership.
8. Mad Men (2007-2015)
Mad Men might be set in the 1960s, but the business insights it offers are timeless. The show follows the life of Don Draper, a charismatic advertising executive, and his team as they navigate the cutthroat world of advertising in New York City.
For entrepreneurs, Mad Men is a treasure trove of insights into creative thinking, branding strategies, and how to build compelling marketing campaigns.
It also looks into the importance of storytelling, understanding customer psychology, and building strong client relationships.
9. Dirty Money (2018-2020)
Dirty Money is a gripping documentary series that dives into the dark world of corporate greed and corruption. Each episode exposes scandals like money laundering, price-fixing, or environmental crimes, showing how businesses often prioritize profits over ethics.
For entrepreneurs, Dirty Money serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of keeping integrity and transparency in business practices.
The series highlights the devastating consequences of unethical decisions for companies, people, and communities harmed by their actions. As you watch, you'll see beyond headlines to understand the true value of ethical business foundations.
10. Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber (2022- )
Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber takes you inside the meteoric rise and turbulent fall of one of the most disruptive startups, Uber. The series examines the complexities of startup culture, the rapid pace of scaling, and ethical dilemmas when growth surpasses governance.
As an entrepreneur, you'll get a front-row seat to the high-stakes world of tech innovation, where leadership and ethics collide.
Super Pumped doesn't shy away from the darker sides of the tech industry, from aggressive competition to regulatory challenges and internal conflicts. It's essential viewing for understanding the dynamics of building a tech giant and the pitfalls of explosive growth.
If you're passionate about startups or tech entrepreneurship, this series provides valuable lessons on the balance between innovation and integrity.
11. Small Business Revolution (2016- )
Small Business Revolution offers a refreshing, heartwarming look at the world of small businesses. This reality business TV show follows a team of experts traveling to small towns across America to revitalize struggling businesses.
Each season focuses on a different town, exploring unique challenges like financial troubles, branding issues, and customer retention.
The show offers practical advice for entrepreneurs on business aspects such as marketing, financial management, and customer service. You'll see real-life examples of businesses adapting and thriving with the right guidance and strategies.
Whether you're running a small business or dreaming of starting one, Small Business Revolution provides both inspiration and actionable insights to help you succeed in your local community.
12. Ballers (2015-2019)
Ballers is a fictional yet insightful series that takes a glamorous look at the world of sports management and finance. The show follows Spencer Strasmore, a retired NFL player, as he transitions into managing the finances of current athletes.
While filled with drama and entertainment, Ballers offers valuable lessons in personal branding, negotiation, and wealth management.
For entrepreneurs, the show highlights the importance of building and managing relationships, navigating complex negotiations, and understanding the nuances of financial planning and investment.
It's an excellent watch for anyone looking to master how to market themselves effectively, build a powerful network, and make smart financial decisions.
13. House of Lies (2012-2016)
House of Lies is a sharp, witty series that pulls back the curtain on the world of high-stakes management consulting. The show follows a team of consultants who rely on unconventional and cutthroat tactics to secure deals and achieve goals.
Although dramatized, House of Lies offers a fascinating glimpse into the strategies, negotiations, and behind-the-scenes maneuvers essential to big business success.
For entrepreneurs, the series is an invaluable resource for understanding competitive positioning, client management, and the importance of strategic thinking in a fast-paced environment. Additionally, it provides insights into the pressures of consultancy work and the extraordinary lengths some go to when closing a deal.
Ultimately, it's a fantastic choice for anyone looking to understand the complexities of business strategy and master the art of persuasion in a highly competitive environment.
14. StartUp (2016-2018)
StartUp takes a darker, more intense approach to the entrepreneurial journey, centering on the launch of a cryptocurrency company. The show delves deep into the moral complexities and ethical dilemmas that arise when building a business in an unregulated, rapidly evolving industry.
As the characters navigate the unpredictable cryptocurrency landscape, they encounter numerous challenges, including securing funding, managing internal conflicts, and dealing with legal gray areas. These obstacles paint a vivid picture of the volatility inherent in emerging industries.
For entrepreneurs, StartUp offers a raw and unfiltered perspective on the highs and lows of launching a startup, particularly in sectors where rules and regulations are still taking shape. Furthermore, it's an excellent watch for anyone interested in tech startups, blockchain, or the chaotic world of entrepreneurship. Viewers gain valuable insights into the risks and rewards of venturing into uncharted territories and the critical role of adaptability and resilience in achieving success.
15. Inside Bill's Brain: Decoding Bill Gates (2019)
Inside Bill's Brain: Decoding Bill Gates provides an in-depth look at the mind of a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, offering viewers an intimate perspective into his life and work.
This documentary delves into Gates' journey, from his early days at Microsoft to his current efforts tackling global challenges. As you watch, you'll gain a rare and thought-provoking insight into his mindset, strategies, and decision-making processes that have shaped his success.
For entrepreneurs, this business TV show is both inspiring and educational, seamlessly blending lessons on leadership, innovation, and the power of problem-solving.
Moreover, Gates' approach to solving complex challenges, his passion for lifelong learning, and his unwavering dedication to creating a positive global impact provide invaluable takeaways. It's a must-watch for anyone striving to leave their mark in business and beyond.
16. The Graham Norton Show (2007-Present)
While primarily known as a talk show, The Graham Norton Show frequently features business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators sharing their journeys and insights. Graham Norton's relaxed interview style creates an environment where guests open up about their professional challenges, breakthrough moments, and lessons learned.
For entrepreneurs, the show provides valuable networking inspiration and demonstrates the importance of personal branding and storytelling in business. You'll see how successful business figures present themselves publicly and communicate their vision in an engaging, accessible way.
The show's format also highlights the power of building genuine relationships and creating memorable experiences - essential skills for any business leader looking to connect with customers, investors, and partners.
17. Face to Face with David (2019-Present)
Face to Face with David offers intimate, in-depth conversations with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry pioneers. The show's one-on-one format allows for deeper exploration of business strategies, decision-making processes, and the personal stories behind professional success.
Each episode provides entrepreneurs with detailed case studies of how successful business leaders navigate challenges, scale operations, and maintain competitive advantages. The conversational format reveals practical insights that aren't typically shared in formal business presentations or interviews.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, the show demonstrates the importance of authentic leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to articulate your vision clearly. It's particularly valuable for understanding how to build trust with stakeholders and communicate complex business concepts effectively.
Business TV Shows – Final Thoughts
While watching business TV shows like Shark Tank, The Profit, Billions, or Succession can be both entertaining and educational, the real value lies in how you apply what you've learned. Therefore, take notes on strategies that resonate with you and think about how they relate to your business.
Additionally, you can research the entrepreneurs, investors, or companies featured in these shows to gain even deeper insights. Furthermore, joining online discussions or entrepreneurial communities where the shows are analyzed allows you to exchange ideas with others.
Remember, the lessons don't end when the episode does—true growth comes from putting these insights into practice.
Finally, grab your notepad (and some popcorn), and let these business TV shows inspire and guide your entrepreneurial journey.