In this engaging discussion, Sam Schillace, Deputy CTO at Microsoft and creator of Google Docs, shares insights from his remarkable tech journey. He delves into the evolution of Google Docs, discussing the value of embracing risk and the joy of creative problem-solving. Sam emphasizes the importance of optimism and playful experimentation in innovation, reflecting on Microsoft's collaborative culture under Satya Nadella. He also touches on why asking 'what if' can spark breakthroughs, urging listeners to pursue their passions for career fulfillment.

Sam Schillace, Deputy CTO at Microsoft and author of "No Prize for Pessimism," chats about optimism in tech innovation. He shares insights from his days creating Google Docs, emphasizing the need to tackle complex problems. Schillace discusses the shift from traditional programming to modern user-centric AI applications. He also reflects on the timing and strategies involved in selling his company to Google, revealing lessons in collaboration and the importance of embracing the messiness of the creative process.

Have you ever wondered who was behind the creation of Google Docs? Kevin talks with Sam Schillace, one of the people who launched the transformational – and at the time controversial – idea 16 years ago. Today, Sam is an engineering Corporate VP focusing on consumer product culture and next generation productivity who stresses the importance of asking “What if?” questions. Kevin and Sam talk career advice, the fact that there’s always tension in high functioning teams and why we’re on the cusp of a new technological era.  Kevin Scott  Behind the Tech with Kevin Scott  Discover and listen to other Microsoft podcasts.  

Sam Schillace, Deputy CTO at Microsoft and creator of Google Docs, shares insights on developing technical taste, AI, market timing, and scaling a software company in 2024. He discusses the importance of asking 'what if' questions, lessons on market timing, and the future of AI. The podcast covers topics like developing technical taste, the value of optimism and risk-taking in tech, and the evolution of tech product development.

Microsoft Deputy CTO Sam Schillace discusses his experiences with AI tools and their potential to shift our productivity paradigm. Topics include the evolution of technology adoption, asking precise questions to AI, developing skills for interacting with smart documents, and the importance of an optimistic mindset for AI implementation.