How I Built This with Guy Raz Sonos: John MacFarlane
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Feb 19, 2024 
John MacFarlane, co-founder of Sonos and pioneer in wireless audio, shares his journey of revolutionizing home music with innovative speaker systems. He discusses the challenges of developing technology in a wired world, from early Wi-Fi issues to competition with tech giants. John highlights the importance of a positive mindset and adaptability in navigating the evolving smart speaker market. He reflects on the delicate balance of timing, luck, and hard work that has shaped Sonos into a major player in the music industry.
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Early Internet Expertise
- John MacFarlane became the go-to person for sending data to Russia during the Soviet Union's breakup because of his internet expertise.
- This experience sparked his interest in the internet's potential and led him to start his first company, Software.com.
Software.com's Initial Idea
- In 1992, Software.com aimed to revolutionize software distribution by selling it online, eliminating the need for floppy disks.
- However, major software companies resisted this idea, fearing it would harm their existing sales channels.
Securing Software.com
- John MacFarlane secured the domain name Software.com in the early 90s during a debate about commercial internet use.
- A woman at the registration organization quickly approved it, recognizing the shift towards commercialization.