Co-founders of 37signals discuss key books that shaped their business approach, productivity habits, and work environments. They reflect on the meaningful aspects of their work, find inspiration from nature and architecture, and share excitement about upcoming projects fueled by unresolved anger and new product endeavors.
Maverick by Ricardo Semler empowered Jason and David to embrace unconventional business strategies, while Blue Ocean Strategy emphasized the importance of creating unique products in uncontested market spaces.
Jeff Bezos' advice on investing in timeless elements inspired David to prioritize long-term foundational aspects of their business, like enhancing their web platform and maintaining brand credibility.
Deep dives
Influential Book Recommendations: Maverick and Blue Ocean Strategy
Jason and David discussed the books that have influenced their business decisions. Maverick by Ricardo Semler gave them the confidence to chart their own path in business, inspiring them to see unconventional approaches in a traditional setting. Blue Ocean Strategy, another book recommendation, highlighted the importance of creating unique products in uncontested market spaces, emphasizing building something different to avoid direct competition.
Investing in Things That Don't Change: Insights from Jeff Bezos
David shared impactful advice from Jeff Bezos about investing in aspects that remain constant over time. Bezos stressed the significance of focusing on elements that withstand the test of time, like Amazon's continuous investment in efficient delivery services. This advice resonated with David, leading him to prioritize long-term, foundational aspects of their business, such as enhancing their web platform and maintaining brand credibility.
Productivity Habits and Workspace Preferences
Jason and David discussed their productivity habits, with Jason emphasizing the importance of time management and minimal distractions. He adheres to a 9-to-5 work schedule, uses a single screen setup, and limits notifications to enhance focus. In contrast, David finds productivity in remote work settings that provide uninterrupted time for deep problem-solving, favoring autonomy in his workspace to tackle complex challenges effectively.
Kimberly is switching things up this week and taking a more casual approach with the co-founders of 37signals, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, asking them a series of rapid fire questions. Jason, for example, reveals the book that granted them permission to forge their unique path, while David shares the profound advice from Jeff Bezos about investing in things that don't change. The two of them also open up about their business journey, the meaning behind their work, and even hint toward upcoming projects. Get ready for a candid and insightful peek into the minds of Jason and David.
[0:27] - How Ricardo Semler's Maverick empowered Jason [0:53] - David also credits Blue Ocean Strategy [1:25] - Best piece of advice? [4:39] - Productive habits? [6:20] - Most meaningful part of David’s and Jason’s jobs? [9:32] - Discussing inspirations like nature and architecture [11:02] - First principles, tech exploration, and aesthetics inspire David. [13:16] - David is embarking on a grand adventure fueled by unresolved anger.
Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.
If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode.