
#309 – John Carmack: Doom, Quake, VR, AGI, Programming, Video Games, and Rockets
Lex Fridman Podcast
The Value of a Leader Micromanaging at a Low Level
Having a leader who can micromanage at a low level and have a comprehensive understanding of the entire product has value. Companies like SpaceX and Apple during the Steve Jobs era benefited from this leadership style, although it often resulted in high employee turnover. However, leaders must also recognize their limits and not try to micromanage beyond a certain level. Wisdom and experience from leaders can offer valuable insights that new employees may not possess. On the other hand, independent teams and free markets can bring unexpected success through diverse perspectives and non-conventional approaches. While there is value in having a passionate leader who cares about the entire product, it is also important to embrace the benefits of independent teams and the unpredictability of the free market.