Top TV Shows For Entrepreneurship Every Startup Founder Should Watch

Understanding entrepreneurship can be a daunting task for you if you are new to it. There are hundreds of resources available, and filtering the most effective ones becomes crucial.

This article lists TV shows that are made to impart entrepreneurial wisdom in an entertaining manner.

Read on to find out which shows could potentially spark that next big business idea.

Top TV Shows for Entrepreneurs

In this section, we will explore some of the top TV shows that every startup founder should watch in 2023.

StartUp (2016–2018)

“StartUp,” a gripping TV show that took the screen from 2016 to 2018, revolves around the world of digital currency. The plot follows an unlikely team made up of a desperate banker, a Haitian-American gang lord, and a Cuban hacker as they create and try to sustain their cutting-edge Bitcoin company.

It gives viewers an inside look at what it takes to get a tech company off the ground while facing countless challenges and adversities. An intense drama filled with entrepreneurial lessons, “StartUp” definitely makes for compelling viewing for budding startup founders.

Shark Tank (2009–Present)

It is not just a regular American business reality television series; it’s an institution for investors and entrepreneurs alike. Since its launch in 2009, the show has been providing budding entrepreneurs the chance to bring their dreams to fruition.

The format involves participants presenting their innovative business ideas in front of a panel of industry heavyweights, known as ‘sharks’. They then decide whether or not they want to invest.

The appeal of “Shark Tank”, however, extends far beyond its entertainment value. Viewers get exposed to real-life negotiations, decision-making processes, and investment strategies that real successful entrepreneurs employ.

This makes it not only engaging but also provides valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship and investment.

Whether you’re a start-up founder or simply interested in business mechanics, “Shark Tank” stands as an informative resource—one that continues shaping entrepreneurial journeys even today.

Also Read: Top 9 Must-Watch TV Series For Startup Enthusiasts

Silicon Valley (2014–2019)

Silicon Valley, a popular series airing from 2014 to 2019, provides compelling insights into the world of tech startups. It offers a humorous yet realistic portrayal of life in the heart of America’s technology hub.

As an entrepreneur, you can get a sense of common challenges faced while launching and running a startup. The show vividly depicts team dynamics, funding struggles, and the process of scaling up.

Despite its comedic nature, Silicon Valley is known for accurately reflecting issues in the tech industry such as privacy concerns and workplace culture. Watching this show might help aspiring founders navigate their own entrepreneurial journey better.

Dragons’ Den (2001–Present)

Dragons’ Den, airing since 2001, presents a unique view of entrepreneurship. In the show, ambitious individuals and budding businesses pitch their innovative ideas to five multimillionaires known as the ‘dragons’.

The main agenda of these entrepreneurs is to secure investment from one or more dragons while maintaining as much equity in their start-up as possible. Each episode contains nerve-wracking moments that reveal real-time decision-making skills, negotiation tactics, and strategies for securing venture capital.

Prize money isn’t handed out freely; hopeful participants must convince at least one dragon to invest the requested amount or walk away empty-handed. Dragons’ Den provides viewers with an immersive look into what it takes to impress seasoned business tycoons and win significant financial backing.

Better Call Saul (2015–2022)

“Better Call Saul” is a standout TV series that aired from 2015 to 2022. It chronicles the journey of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer struggling to make his mark in the world of law.

As he navigates through numerous professional and personal complications, subtle aspects of entrepreneurship come alive – risk-taking, innovation, resilience, and tenacity. Not your traditional startup tale but definitely offering unique perspectives on determination and survival in business!

Other Recommended TV Shows for Startup Founders

In addition to the top TV shows mentioned above, there are several other recommended TV shows for startup founders.

The Dropout (2022)

“The Dropout” hits the screens in 2022 and quickly gains recognition as an intriguing educational piece for entrepreneurs. This dramatic series traces the rise and fall of one-time billionaire and Theranos founder, Elizabeth Holmes.

Startup founders can dive into the unfolding events to understand how ambitious entrepreneurial dreams can plunge into notorious scams if integrity is compromised.

“The Dropout” starkly presents the risks involved in running businesses, teaching budding founders crucial lessons about ethics and corporate transparency in a gripping narrative format.

Halt and Catch Fire (2014–2017)

“Halt and Catch Fire” is a dramatized portrayal of the personal computing revolution in the early 1980s. This splendidly crafted series focuses on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Set in Texas’ Silicon Prairie tech hub, it brings together a visionary engineer, a prodigy programmer, and a shrewd sales executive to build an innovative computer that surpasses market leaders like IBM.

The show takes viewers through various stages of business development – from idea generation to commercial execution emphasizing tough decisions entrepreneurs often face. Its engrossing plot twists make “Halt and Catch Fire” an essential addition for startup founders seeking insights into how disruptive ideas can transform industries.

Mad Men (2007–2015)

“Mad Men” is a TV show that aired from 2007 to 2015 and is worth considering for startup founders. Set in the 1960s, it provides a glimpse into the world of advertising and marketing.

The show explores themes of ambition, innovation, and leadership through complex characters navigating the cutthroat business world. “Mad Men” offers valuable insights into the creative process, consumer behavior, and building successful brands.

It’s an engaging watch for entrepreneurs looking to understand the power of storytelling and effective communication in business.

The Profit (2013–2021)

“The Profit” is a well-known business TV show that aired from 2013 to 2021. It follows successful entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis as he helps struggling businesses turn their fortunes around.

Each episode features Lemonis investing his own money into these companies in exchange for a percentage of ownership and then working closely with the owners to implement changes and improve their operations.

This show provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and offers practical advice on how to overcome them. Watching “The Profit” can give startup founders a glimpse into the real-life struggles of running a business and inspire them to apply similar strategies in their own ventures.

Billions (2016–Present)

“Billions” is a TV show that has been airing since 2016 and is highly recommended for startup founders. The show revolves around the world of high finance, where a hedge fund billionaire and a U.S. Attorney engage in an intense battle for power and influence.

Through its gripping storytelling and complex characters, “Billions” offers valuable insights into the cutthroat world of business and showcases strategies used by successful entrepreneurs to stay ahead in the game.

This captivating drama series serves as a great source of inspiration for startup founders looking to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and make their mark in the business world.

Benefits of Watching TV Shows About Entrepreneurship

Gain insights from successful entrepreneurs, learn their strategies and tactics, and get inspired to pursue your own entrepreneurial goals.

Gain insights from successful entrepreneurs

Watch TV shows about entrepreneurship to gain valuable insights from successful entrepreneurs. These shows provide a window into the world of business and offer real-life examples of how entrepreneurs navigate challenges, make decisions, and achieve success.

By watching these shows, you can learn from their experiences, strategies, and tactics. This knowledge can help you develop your own business acumen and apply these lessons to your own entrepreneurial journey.

So tune in and get inspired by the stories of those who have already made it happen in the world of business.

Learn from their business strategies and tactics

These TV shows offer startup founders a unique opportunity to learn from the business strategies and tactics of successful entrepreneurs. As you watch “StartUp,” “Shark Tank,” “Silicon Valley,” and “Dragons’ Den,” pay close attention to how these entrepreneurs navigate challenges, make critical decisions, and build their businesses.

By observing their approaches, you can gain valuable insights that may inspire innovative thinking and help shape your own entrepreneurial journey. Take note of the diverse strategies employed by the entrepreneurs featured in shows like “The Profit,” “Dirty Money,” and “Ballers” as well.

There is much wisdom to be gleaned from their experiences, giving you a broader perspective on what it takes to succeed in the dynamic world of business.

Get inspired and motivated to pursue your own entrepreneurial goals

Watching TV shows about entrepreneurship can be a great source of inspiration and motivation for startup founders. By immersing yourself in the stories of successful entrepreneurs, you can gain valuable insights into their journeys and learn from their business strategies and tactics.

Whether it’s the high-stakes pitches on “Shark Tank,” the comedic adventures in Silicon Valley, or the intense negotiations on “Dragons’ Den,” these TV shows offer a glimpse into the world of startups and entrepreneurship.

Through watching these shows, you can fuel your own entrepreneurial ambitions and find the drive to pursue your own goals with determination. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and let these TV shows ignite your passion for entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the top TV shows about entrepreneurship that every startup founder should watch in 2023. These shows provide valuable insights from successful entrepreneurs, teach important business strategies and tactics, and inspire and motivate viewers to pursue their own entrepreneurial goals.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from these incredible television shows.

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