The Tim Ferriss Show

#369: Kevin Systrom — Tactics, Books, and the Path to a Billion Users

Apr 25, 2019

Kevin Systrom, co-founder and former CEO of Instagram, shares insights from his journey building the platform to over a billion users. He emphasizes the importance of simplicity in decision-making and how focusing on core user needs can transform experiences. Reflecting on his Odeo internship, Systrom highlights vital lessons on timing and innovation in startups. He also discusses effective management and the value of constructive feedback, urging entrepreneurs to embrace resilience and pursue their passions while navigating challenges.

01:30:27

Episode guests

Kevin Systrom

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Proving yourself and your ideas is more important than seeking external validation.

Facing rejection and doubts can fuel determination to push forward and prove others wrong.

Gathering feedback, even if it is challenging, helps improve ideas and execution.

Deep dives

Learning to manage 13 employees after selling the company

After selling the company and managing a team of 13 employees, I faced challenges and doubts. People assumed it was the end, but my love for the project and determination to prove them wrong kept me going. We focused on proving ourselves rather than seeking external validation. It was a motivator to show that Instagram was just getting started, and the sale was not the end of our journey.

Intro

6min

Simplicity in Startup Success

13min

Lessons from the Mayfield Fellows Program

9min

Reflections on a Pioneering Internship at Odeo

2min

Navigating Success: The Art of Pivoting

29min

Empowering Management for Success

9min

Navigating Reading and Entrepreneurship

17min

Reflections and Recommendations: Insights from a Tech Journey

5min

“I think a big part of knowing that you’re right is working as hard as you can to prove that you’re wrong. And if you can’t, well, there’s only one option left, which is: you’re probably right.” — Kevin Systrom

Kevin Systrom (@kevin) is an entrepreneur and the co-founder (with Mike Krieger) of Instagram. While at Instagram, Kevin served as the CEO, where he oversaw the company’s vision and strategy and daily operations. Under his leadership, Instagram grew to over one billion users and launched dozens of products including video, live, direct messaging, creative tools, Stories, and IGTV.

The company also grew to over 800 employees with a campus in Menlo Park, new offices in New York City, and a new headquarters in San Francisco.

Prior to founding Instagram, Kevin graduated from Stanford University with a BS in management science and engineering. Kevin currently lives in San Francisco with his wife and daughter.

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