4 Top Shows, Films, and Documentaries Every New Entrepreneur Should Watch

The entrepreneurial journey encompasses far more than hard work; it includes a mix of inspiration, challenges, moments of joy, and ongoing development. For young professionals and small business owners, navigating this path involves embracing emerging financial trends, global leadership strategies, and the digital transformation of finance, management, and strategy.

Every business owner and founder experiences a unique journey of triumphs and setbacks. Documentaries, films, and TV shows can offer much-needed perspective and encouragement, showing you’re not alone. These stories, with their relatable characters and situations, can add a human touch to what might otherwise feel like a sterile corporate process. They provide valuable insights into risk management, self-sustained growth, and the paths others have taken.  

In this article, we’ve curated a list of four top content pieces essential for any entrepreneur. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or practical strategies to navigate the complexities of the business world, these films and shows promise to be entertaining and enlightening. Grab your popcorn and soda, and let the screening begin!

Becoming Warren Buffett 

The documentary, ‘Becoming Warren Buffett’ is an essential watch for budding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone interested in the world and the intricacies of finance. It offers a rare, never-told-before glimpse into the investment strategies and philosophy of one of the most successful investors in history. 

This film explores Buffettt’s early life, approach to business, and affinity for investing through the horse’s mouth, as well as via extensive interviews with the people close to him. It sheds light on the importance of studying current and recent trends and learning the actual value of investing. Viewers gain insights into how Buffett navigated changes over the years and maintained powerful investment strategies, providing a valuable lesson in adaptability and foresight. It is a critical resource for understanding broader economic trends and applying these lessons to one’s business practice, growth plans, and investment strategies, making it a must-watch for those looking to thrive in today’s dynamic financial landscape.

Inside Bill’s Brain

‘Inside Bill’s Brain: Decoding Bill Gates’ is a documentary series that offers entrepreneurs a deep dive into the mind of one of the world’s most successful businessmen the world has seen. The series, directed by Davis Guggenheim, explores Bill Gates’ relentless pursuit of innovative solutions to some of the world’s most complex problems. For entrepreneurs, the documentary provides an invaluable look at Gates’ early life and ambition, spotlighting strategic thinking and demonstrating how a deep focus on one’s goals and a great understanding of the details can lead to groundbreaking achievements in any field.

The second episode is mainly insightful for new entrepreneurs, highlighting Gates’ early days at Microsoft and his immense dedication to catapulting it to tremendous success. New entrepreneurs can learn from Gates’ example the importance of commitment, a hands-on approach to leadership, and the impact of personal relationships on business operations. 

The Office 

“Would I rather be feared or loved? Easy. Both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me.”

– Michael Scott

If you’re a budding entrepreneur, make sure to add the hit mockumentary sitcom, 

‘The Office’ is a must-watch for budding entrepreneurs. Set within the walls of Dunder Mifflin, a mundane paper company, the show features a diverse ensemble that delivers much more than non-stop laughs and gags. The quirky characters, led by the hilariously well-intentioned branch manager, Michael Scott, showcase loyalty, passion, and the elements of a welcoming work culture. Though small, the team regularly engages in office socials and events, creating a strong sense of community. Celebrations from Diwali to Christmas provide entertainment and highlight the show’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity—critical lessons for anyone in the business world.  

Michael Scott’s unconventional leadership approach encourages thinking outside the box and tackling challenges head-on. Meanwhile, characters like the ever-lovable Dwight Schrute embody resilience and persistence in pursuing goals. Each character’s journey provides valuable insights into adapting roles, creatively overcoming obstacles, and building strong team relationships. The Office demonstrates that embracing one’s unique traits can drive unexpected success and innovation in entrepreneurship.

The 100 Foot Journey

Set in a small, picturesque town in France, ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey’ is an endearing film that delves into the complexities of starting and running a business abroad. It explores resilience, cross-cultural communication, innovation, and the passion that fuels dreams.  

The story unfolds through the protagonist, Hassan Kadam, and his relentless pursuit to establish his restaurant, Maison Mumbai, directly across from a Michelin-starred French eatery in a small village. With his limited resources, Hassan sets out to achieve a dream filled with challenges. He exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit of seizing opportunities where others might spot roadblocks. 

The film touches upon the importance of innovation by highlighting Hassan’s approach to blending French culinary techniques with traditional Indian flavors. This outstanding example captures the essence of entrepreneurial innovation—creating something unique and valuable from existing concepts.  

Furthermore, the rivalry between Maison Mumbai and Le Saule Pleureur mirrors real-world business competition, where success often depends on understanding and staying ahead of the competitive curve. The subplot involves sabotage and eventual reconciliation and sheds light on the importance of alliances and community in business.  

The film also explores personal growth and the pursuit of excellence, as seen through Hassan’s ambition to earn Michelin stars—a symbol of culinary and business prowess, both critical players in the eventual success of the entrepreneurial journey. His decision to return to his roots after achieving success in Paris reminds entrepreneurs to remain true to their values and vision despite external achievements. The film illustrates that the entrepreneurial path is never straight and often studded with ups and downs, but focusing on the ultimate goal is crucial for success.

The Final Word:

Our curated selection of TV shows, films, and documentaries offers more than just entertainment; it serves as an insightful list that delves into key business concepts and some of the most remarkable entrepreneurial journeys ever. 

From real insights into the resilience, innovation, investment strategies, and perseverance of business geniuses like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates, as well as comedic yet insightful scenarios about leadership in ‘The Office’ and the complexities of establishing a business abroad alongside a side of risk management in ‘The Hundred-Foot Journey,’ these pieces of content are especially beneficial for budding entrepreneurs. They simplify complex aspects of the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience, personal growth, and dedication. 

Through these real and fictional stories, entrepreneurs can see the varied paths to success, learn practical strategies for overcoming obstacles, and understand the importance of adapting and innovating in response to adversaries. By engaging with these films and shows, aspiring business owners gain inspiration and actionable lessons to guide and inspire them to achieve newer heights in their ventures.

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