Conversations with Tyler Reid Hoffman on Systems, Levers, and Quixotic Quests
18 snips
Jan 15, 2020 
Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn and a prominent investor at Greylock Partners, discusses how his love for tabletop games shapes his view of life as a heroic quest. He dives into key societal leverage points that can foster change and critiques the conventional Silicon Valley mindset. Hoffman also reflects on the philosophical influences in his work, particularly how Wittgenstein inspired LinkedIn's design. The nature of friendship, the evolution of talent certification, and innovative board game concepts are also explored in a lively exchange.
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Oxen Driving
- Reid Hoffman drove oxen in high school as part of a diverse curriculum at the Putney School.
- The school emphasized a holistic education, including intellectual and practical skills.
Early Influences
- Reid Hoffman's focus on networks, incentives, and cultures didn't come from his time at Putney School but may have been influenced by his upbringing.
- His parents, both lawyers, encouraged him to formulate arguments for his desires and consider societal differences.
Dungeons & Dragons and Life as a Quest
- A babysitter introduced a nine-year-old Reid Hoffman to Dungeons & Dragons.
- This sparked his view of life as a heroic quest with multiple players working together, influencing his approach to social systems.
