Inside The Machine

About Inside The Machine

The politics, power plays, and secrets inside corporate empires.

Publisher

National Media Archive

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 Jul 2025

Latest episode

14 Sept 2025

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Sept 2025

   Why Toys R Us Filed for Bankruptcy

   Toys R Us, once the go-to toy retailer, filed for bankruptcy in 2017 mainly due to overwhelming debt from a 2005 leveraged buyout. While competition from online retailers like Amazon and big-box stores like Walmart and Target hurt sales, the massive debt made it impossible to adapt. Declining toy popularity also played a role. The bankruptcy aims to restructure, giving Toys R Us a chance to remain in business if it can manage its debt and improve its competitiveness. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

2. 

   7 Sept 2025

   The Rise and Fall of Quiznos

   Quiznos, once a fast-growing sandwich chain known for its toasted subs, peaked at 5,000 locations in 2007 but fell to under 1,000 by 2019. The decline is attributed to poor franchisee relations, high supply costs, overexpansion, increased competition, and financial struggles, including bankruptcy. Despite brand recognition and past success, Quiznos faces an uncertain future as new ownership attempts a turnaround. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

3. 

   31 Aug 2025

   Sbarro: The Rise and Struggles of a Mall Pizza Icon

   Sbarro began as a family-run Italian deli in Brooklyn in the 1950s, evolving into a pizza chain known for its mall food court locations. After rapid expansion, Sbarro faced financial trouble due to heavy debt, declining mall traffic, and criticism of its pizza quality. The company filed for bankruptcy twice (2011, 2014) and has since struggled to regain its former success, challenged by competition and changing consumer tastes. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

4. 

   24 Aug 2025

   The Rise and Decline of KFC in America

   Once an iconic American fast food brand, KFC has seen a steady decline in U.S. popularity due to increased competition, menu quality issues, marketing missteps, health concerns, and a damaged reputation. Originally driven by Colonel Sanders, KFC grew rapidly before changing hands multiple times. Despite struggles at home, KFC has thrived internationally, especially in China, where most of its locations now operate. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

5. 

   17 Aug 2025

   The Rise and Fall of Radio Shack

   This episode explores Radio Shack’s near 100-year journey, from its 1921 founding to its dramatic decline. Once a major electronics retailer, Radio Shack struggled due to late adoption of online sales, poor product choices, and missteps in the cell phone market. Multiple bankruptcies, failed store strategies, and management turnover sealed its fate. Now, with only a few stores left, Radio Shack is largely a relic of the past. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

6. 

   10 Aug 2025

   The Rise and Fall of the XFL: A Bold NFL Rival

   The XFL, launched in 2001 by NBC Sports' Dick Ebersol and WWF's Vince McMahon, aimed to offer a more extreme, entertaining alternative to the NFL. Despite innovative features like player nicknames, on-field cameras, and unique rules, the league suffered from poor football quality and excessive wrestling influence. Initial high ratings plummeted, leading to its quick demise. Lessons from its failure influenced football broadcasts, and a 2020 reboot was planned with key adjustments. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

7. 

   3 Aug 2025

   The Rise and Fall of Long John Silver's

   Long John Silver's, once the largest fast-food seafood chain in the US, has faced decades of decline due to rising competition, unhealthy menu perceptions, and mounting debt from a leveraged buyout. Despite early success and a unique nautical theme, the chain has closed many locations and struggled with public image. Recent efforts include healthier menu options and rebranding, but the future remains uncertain. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

8. 

   27 Jul 2025

   The Rise, Fall, and Comeback of Little Caesars

   Little Caesars is the fastest-growing pizza chain in the US, known for its quick, affordable pizza and unique carry-out model. After rapid expansion from the 1950s to early 1990s, the chain faced declining sales due to increased competition, inconsistent advertising, and franchisee disputes. Revitalized by new promotions, effective advertising, and franchisee support, Little Caesars has reclaimed its position as the third largest US pizza chain. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

9. 

   25 Jul 2025

   Brand New One ;)

10. 

    22 Jul 2025

    The Turbulent History of Arby's

    Arby's, founded by the Raffel brothers in 1964, has seen dramatic rises and falls, from rapid expansion and bankruptcy to ownership changes and bold marketing. Initially unique for its roast beef focus, Arby's navigated financial crises, misguided menu changes, and several corporate takeovers before revitalizing its brand in recent years. The name 'Arby's' cleverly reflects both 'Raffel Brothers' and 'roast beef,' adding to its quirky legacy. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

11. 

    21 Jul 2025

    Pizza Hut: From Iconic Brand to Second Place

    Once the leading national pizza chain, Pizza Hut has seen a decline due to increased competition, a lack of innovative menu items, and a slow adaptation to delivery trends. Once famous for family dining and creative offerings, the brand now trails Domino's and has closed hundreds of locations. Efforts to revamp the menu and rebrand have mostly failed, but Pizza Hut continues to adapt in hopes of regaining its former glory. Join us on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Patreon to access additional resources and explore all topics covered by the National Media Archive: Power & Influence Luxury & Prestige Wealth & Finance Erotic Audio Personal Growth & Achievement Crime & Corruption (True Crime) Knowledge & Ideas History & Legacy News, Culture & Society Technology & Innovation Exploration & Wonder Thank you to our newest Patreon subscribers since our last episode: Morgan Absher Elyse Willems Zach Anner Adam Pally Thomas Small Michelle MiJung Maryam Banikarim Kate Cagle Jabari Young Jon Gabrus Kaelyn Moore

Contact Inside The Machine

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.