Founder mode
with Andrew, Pedro, and Joshua.
October 03, 2024 18:33
Created by Henry
Andrew Hayes
Pedro Miller
Joshua Wu
Andrew Hayes Okay guys, let's explore the differences between founder mode and manager mode. I've always been curious about how founders like Steve Jobs operate differently from typical managers.
Joshua Wu Absolutely! It's fascinating how founders often rely on their instincts and vision, while managers focus on optimizing processes and efficiency. This founder intuition can sometimes seem like a superpower.
Pedro Miller And let's not forget their unconventional methods! I feel like Steve Jobs might have just skipped annual performance reviews in favor of a surprise annual retreat to a mysterious island.
Andrew Hayes What makes founder mode genuinely unique? How can founders excel by following this approach?
Joshua Wu Founders often thrive by breaking norms. They focus on long-term goals and big-picture thinking, whereas managers are about refining and maintaining the present status quo.
Pedro Miller It's like comparing an artist to a gallery owner. One creates the masterpiece; the other ensures it's well-lit.
Andrew Hayes Got it. So how do these unconventional methods play out in real life? How did someone like Steve Jobs implement this mode?
Joshua Wu Jobs was known for his "skip-level" meetings where he'd bypass several management layers to understand what's really happening on the ground. He wanted fresh insights directly from the source.
Pedro Miller That's Steve Jobs for you, skipping levels like he's in a video game trying to beat the high score!
Andrew Hayes So, what about the future of founder mode? How might our understanding of it evolve?
Joshua Wu There's a growing recognition of its benefits beyond tech. As sectors like sustainability and social entrepreneurship emerge, founder modes might offer innovative paths forward despite established advice.
Pedro Miller Maybe one day, kids will say they can't wait to grow up and be a "founder-mode" CEO. Like aspiring to be a rock star but with a healthier diet.
Andrew Hayes Do we think founders can continue to achieve greatness despite receiving advice that might not suit their style?
Joshua Wu They already have! Many have thrived by trusting their instincts, challenging the advice that didn't align with their vision. This resilience and clarity of purpose might be the secret sauce.
Pedro Miller Sort of like finding success by playing the long game in a world obsessed with quick fixes.
Andrew Hayes So, embracing founder mode isn't just about being unconventional; it's about having the conviction in your path, even when the world seems determined to lead you another way.
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