As business owners or looking to start one, learning from real stories can help you avoid mistakes and make better decisions. Documentaries show the real struggles and successes of people who built great businesses. 

They can give you new ideas, inspire you, and teach you valuable lessons. Here are some documentaries that every business owner should watch:

Undercover Billionaire

What if you had to start a business from scratch, with just $100? This series follows successful entrepreneurs as they take on this challenge. They have no contacts, no money, and no help—just their skills and experience. It’s an exciting watch that proves success isn’t about luck; it’s about having the right mindset and strategy.

The Founder

This movie tells the story of Ray Kroc, the man who turned McDonald’s into a global empire. It shows how he took a simple idea and scaled it into one of the biggest businesses in the world. The film highlights the power of persistence, strategy, and making bold decisions.

The Playbook — Coaching Rules for Life and Business

Some of the best business lessons come from sports. This documentary features top coaches like Doc Rivers and José Mourinho, who share their strategies for winning under pressure. Whether you’re leading a team or running a company, their lessons on leadership, discipline, and resilience can help you succeed.

Becoming Warren Buffett

Warren Buffett is one of the most successful investors in history. But what makes him different? This documentary takes a deep dive into his habits, mindset, and business decisions. It shows how staying disciplined, thinking long-term, and making smart choices can lead to lasting success.

Inside Bill’s Brain

How does Bill Gates think? This documentary gives you a look inside the mind of one of the world’s most influential business leaders. From building Microsoft to solving global problems, Gates shows how clear thinking, problem-solving, and long-term planning can make a huge impact.

Don’t Die — The Cost of Obsession

Bryan Johnson made millions after selling his company, Braintree, which owned Venmo. But his success came at a huge personal cost—his health suffered. This documentary follows his journey as he shifts his focus from making money to living longer. It’s a powerful reminder that success means nothing if you don’t take care of yourself.

Jiro Dreams of Sushi

Jiro Ono runs a small sushi restaurant in Japan, but he is world-famous for his dedication to excellence. This documentary follows his daily routine, showing how hard work and attention to detail lead to success. The lesson? No matter what business you’re in, mastery and consistency are key.

What you should know

Success in business isn’t just about ideas, it’s about execution, mindset, and learning from others. These documentaries give you a front-row seat to the experiences of top business minds. 

They can inspire you, challenge your thinking, and help you become a better entrepreneur. Which one will you watch first?