In 1984, Red Bull was born from a chance encounter. While battling jetlag, Dietrich Mateschitz discovered Krating Daeng, a popular drink among Thai truck drivers created by Chaleo Yoovidhya. It was an affordable alternative to coffee. Mateschitz saw potential in the beverage and convinced Yoovidhya if they made it carbonated they could transform it into a global brand. Together, they invested $500,000 each, forming a 49/49 partnership, with 2% going to Yoovidhya’s son. Initially, Red Bull struggled, losing over a million dollars in its early years. But Mateschitz didn’t give up. Almost out of money, Mateschitz turned to his college friend Johannes Kastner, who owned an ad agency. Kastner’s team designed the now-iconic blue-and-silver can and coined the slogan “It Gives You Wings.” They launched the re-brand in Hungary, Germany, and the UK. Red Bull’s sales skyrocketed. “It’s not just about the drink; it’s about the spirit,” Mateschitz said. In 2022, when Mateschitz passed, his net worth was estimated at US$27.4 billion, underscoring the incredible success of Red Bull under his leadership.