Founders

My conversation with Daniel Ek: Founder of Spotify

2319 snips
Sep 28, 2025
Daniel Ek, the innovative founder and CEO of Spotify, dives into the principles that shaped his journey in music streaming. He shares insights on prioritizing impact over happiness, emphasizing how true satisfaction stems from solving hard problems. Daniel discusses the importance of relentless product craftsmanship and self-awareness in entrepreneurship. He reflects on recognizing talent, nurturing relationships for honest feedback, and preserving creativity within growing companies. His views on energy management and the value of breaks shed light on maintaining long-term excellence.
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ADVICE

Learn By Shadowing Peers

  • Learn by immersing yourself in other companies: sit in meetings and interview their teams.
  • Use that firsthand observation to copy what truly enables culture and practices to work.
ANECDOTE

Stepping Back Improved Product

  • Gustav told Daniel he added little value in product reviews, prompting Daniel to step back for three months.
  • Removing himself improved team morale and revealed where he could add unique value.
INSIGHT

Company Parenting Stages

  • Companies evolve like children: founders must shift from hands-on to being available when needed.
  • Protecting the seed of new ideas inside large companies is a crucial ongoing role.
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