“HR Heretics” | How CPOs, CHROs, Founders, and Boards Build High Performing Companies 40 Hours, No Meetings, No Politics: Building a Company That Actually Works with David Heinemeier Hansson (DHH)
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Aug 26, 2025 
David Heinemeier Hansson, creator of Ruby on Rails and co-owner of 37signals, dives into the essence of workplace efficiency. He passionately critiques DEI initiatives and workplace politics, advocating for political neutrality at work. DHH shares his philosophy of minimal management and creative constraints, emphasizing a 40-hour workweek devoid of meetings. He discusses the importance of clear communication in a meeting-free culture and reflects on the balance between work and life, urging organizations to prioritize productivity with integrity.
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How Ruby Changed His Career
- David fell in love with Ruby within a week while building Basecamp and decided to become a programmer.
- He describes coding as writing, aiming for poetic, graceful expression in code.
Design For Optional Founders
- Jason and David design 37signals so the company does not need constant management and founders are optional.
- They radiate information and avoid standing meetings to keep the organization self-sufficient.
Replace Meetings With Two Questions
- Require concise written updates instead of many meetings by asking two weekly questions.
- Use Monday planning and frequent quick status posts to maintain alignment without standups.
