Ep 9. Milton Hershey

CNBC Titans is an American television documentary series that celebrates some of the greatest business leaders of modern times. In season 1 episode 9, we delve into the life of Milton Hershey, the man behind the Hershey chocolate empire.

Milton Hershey was a dreamer and a pioneer who faced many obstacles on his path to success. In this episode, we learn about his humble beginnings as a candy-making apprentice, his early failures as a businessman and his relentless pursuit of his passion for creating a unique, high-quality product.

Born in a small farming community in Pennsylvania, Hershey's early years were marked by disappointment and upheaval. He struggled in school and was sent away from home at the age of 14 to learn the candy-making trade. However, his apprenticeship was cut short when he was fired by his boss.

Despite this setback, Hershey kept his dream alive and started his own candy-making business. He tried and failed several times, but he didn't give up. Finally, he stumbled upon a technique for making milk chocolate that was smooth and creamy, and he knew he had found his niche.

Hershey's success didn't come overnight, though. He faced many challenges in his quest for greatness. These included economic downturns, lawsuits, and a devastating fire that destroyed his main factory. Throughout it all, he remained focused and determined, and his unwavering dedication paid off.

In this episode, we see how Hershey's vision changed the candy industry forever. He was the first to mass-produce milk chocolate, which until then had been a luxury item. He also pioneered new marketing techniques, such as offering free samples and creating eye-catching advertisements.

As Hershey's company grew, so did his philanthropic spirit. He believed in giving back to the community and created numerous charities and foundations to help those in need. Perhaps his greatest legacy is the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania, which he built from scratch to house his factory and provide a better life for his employees.

Through interviews with historians, business experts, and Hershey's descendants, this episode provides a fascinating look at the life of a true titan of industry. We see how Milton Hershey's perseverance and determination led him to create a legacy that has lasted for over a century.

Overall, season 1 episode 9 of CNBC Titans is a captivating and inspiring portrait of Milton Hershey and his enduring impact on American business and culture. It highlights the importance of innovation, persistence, and community in the pursuit of success.