Passion Struck with John R. Miles

Tien Tzuo on Why Agility Is the Key to Finding Fulfillment | EP 653

Aug 21, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Tien Tzuo, the visionary founder and CEO of Zuora and bestselling author, delves into the transformative power of agility and how it shapes both personal and professional fulfillment. He highlights the importance of prioritizing relationships over products in an ever-changing world. Tien shares insights on embracing a transformational mindset, the evolving dynamics of leadership in tech, and the impact of founders on team culture, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own growth and adaptability.
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ANECDOTE

Dell's Fast Pivot Beat A Long Oracle Rollout

  • John Miles recounts replacing a failing Oracle rollout with a faster, cheaper Salesforce+Zuora solution.
  • The switch saved years and hundreds of millions compared with staying on the original path.
INSIGHT

Startup Agility Trumps Big Incumbents

  • Founders' speed and resource focus let startups outmaneuver incumbents in complex projects.
  • Tien Tzuo credits Zuora's agility for winning Dell over Oracle during a high-stakes rollout.
ADVICE

Trade Control For Systems As You Scale

  • Stop tightening control when growth creates coordination problems because it often worsens the issue.
  • Instead develop systems and let the organization make more decisions as you scale.
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