Lenny's Podcast: Product | Growth | Career

Inside Canva: Coaches not managers, giving away your Legos, and running profitably | Cameron Adams (co-founder and CPO)

143 snips
Jun 2, 2024
Cameron Adams, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Canva, shares insights from the company’s remarkable journey. He discusses why Canva has no managers, choosing coaching over traditional hierarchy, and promotes the idea of 'giving away your Legos' for better collaboration. Cameron reflects on the importance of a delightful user experience that delayed their MVP launch and reveals their innovative three-pillar framework for integrating AI. He also highlights Canva's shift to serve larger enterprises while maintaining a focus on creativity and collaboration.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

50% Valuation Cut

  • An investor tried to cut Canva's valuation by 50% at the $100M mark.
  • Canva's co-founders found a new lead investor with better terms in a week.
INSIGHT

Product-Obsessed Culture

  • Canva prioritizes product over financials, even in board meetings.
  • Their product-led approach and investor trust allow this focus.
ADVICE

Prioritize Culture Fit

  • Prioritize team and culture fit over individual expertise when hiring.
  • Internal hires understand the company culture and vision better.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app