Tools and Weapons with Brad Smith Bill Gates: Starting the Digital Revolution
11 snips
Mar 13, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and a pioneer in the personal computer revolution, reflects on the tech giant's 50-year journey. He shares insights from his new memoir, exploring the evolution of leadership and innovation at Microsoft. Gates discusses exciting advancements in technology, especially in health and education, and highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to tackle global challenges. He also recounts personal anecdotes from intense legal battles, illustrating the power of humor in high-pressure situations.
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Early Programming Days
- Bill Gates's interest in software began at age 13 when his school acquired a computer terminal.
- He and Paul Allen taught programming, fascinated by making programs work.
Payroll Project
- As teenagers, Gates and Allen secured a contract to create payroll software.
- Their experience working with adults provided invaluable feedback and helped them refine their skills.
Scarce Computer Time
- Access to computer time was limited during Gates's early years, even at Harvard.
- The advent of the microprocessor made computing more accessible and fueled their vision.
