How I Write

Brie Wolfson: How Writing Builds Billion-Dollar Companies | How I Write Podcast

Apr 3, 2024

In this discussion, Brie Wolfson, an expert on writing-first culture with a rich background at Stripe and work with giants like Amazon, shares her insights on how effective writing fuels business success. She emphasizes that writing is a crucial thinking tool that enhances speed and intention in organizations. Brie delves into the editing process, revealing its importance in crafting compelling narratives. She also explores the balance between writing and action, and how a strong writing culture can transform a company’s growth trajectory.

01:06:35

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Episode guests

Brie Wolfson

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Quick takeaways

Clear writing at Stripe enhanced organizational clarity and shared understanding.

Curated writing at Stripe focused on synthesizing complex concepts for broader audience comprehension.

Balancing 'high low' elements in writing creates engaging, multifaceted narratives for diverse audience preferences.

Deep dives

The Essence of Clarity in Writing

Writing at Stripe emphasized the force of clarity in writing, where unclear writing often stems from murky thinking. By sharpening their writing, individuals could crystallize their thoughts effectively, leading to enhanced organizational clarity. This clarity in communication, akin to a tuning fork finding resonance, enabled ideas accessible to all within the company, fostering cohesion and shared understanding.

Top writer: Write about less!

01:38

Exploring the Impact of Clear Writing and Idea Sharing Within an Organization

02:50

Editing process: the most important part of writing

01:05

Similarities between Taste Cultivation and the Writing-Editing Process

01:34

Intro

3min

The Balance Between Writing and Action in Organizational Culture

2min

The Birth and Impact of Stripe Press

2min

Exploring the Art of Book Design and Durability

3min

Crafting Compelling Narratives

10min

Tina Brown's Vanity Fair Revolution

9min

Embracing the Editing Journey

13min

The Art of Taste in Hiring and Creativity

18min

The Art of Blending Fiction with Nonfiction

8min

Writing is thinking, which means it’s like lighter fluid for business growth.

Brie has played major roles at writing-rich companies like Stripe, and her expertise on writing-first culture is now used by giants like Amazon and Basecamp.

As she says: “Reality has a surprising amount of detail.” Writing illuminates all the interesting details worth pursuing. And as a result, companies who prioritize writing operate with impressive speed, intention, and rigor.

In this episode, Brie shares years of hard-won wisdom to expose how great writing sets companies apart. She explores the balance of writing vs. taking action; she breaks down the editing process better than a modern-day Maxwell Perkins; and she sheds light on the secret to great writing: your zone of obsession.

If you want to learn how to do the best writing of your life, and grow your company while you’re at it, this episode is for you.

SPEAKER LINKS:

Website: https://www.briewolfson.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/zebriez

Stripe Press: https://press.stripe.com/

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PODCAST LINKS:

Website: https://writeofpassage.com/how-i-write

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidPerellChannel/videos

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-write/id1700171470