How I Write

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

Apr 3, 2024

Brie Wolfson, writing-first culture expert from Amazon and Basecamp, reveals the power of writing in business growth. She discusses the balance of writing vs. action, the editing process, and the secret to great writing. Learn how writing sets companies apart and drives success.

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

Editing process: the most important part of writing

01:05

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

02:50

Similarities between Cultivating Taste and Editing Process

01:02

Introduction

3min

Exploring Internal Writing Practices and Balancing Thought with Action

2min

Exploring the Genesis of Strike Press and the Evolution of Publishing at Stripe

2min

Exploring Detailed Book Design Techniques and Materials

3min

Crafting Compelling Narratives and Maintaining Engagement

18min

The Importance of Editing and Self-Assessment in Writing

13min

Cultivating Taste and Developing Writing Skills

18min

The Intersection of Fiction and Non-Fiction Writing

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