

The Important Thing
Michael Lopp
The Important Thing with Michael ("Rands") Lopp and Lyle Troxell. Let's spend a few minutes of your life listening and learning about an Important Thing.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Jul 12, 2025 • 15min
The One About Founder Mode
This discussion dives into the challenging transition of founders from hands-on leadership to structured management, influenced by investors. It emphasizes the need for open communication and avoiding micromanagement to cultivate a strong company culture. The podcast also tackles the pressure founders face as they balance their original vision with investor expectations, highlighting the importance of collaboration in product-driven environments. Finally, it reflects on how founders’ legacies shape company culture, even amidst changes in leadership.

7 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 18min
The One About Exercise
The podcast dives into personal journeys of exercise and weight management, highlighting mental health boosts from adopting healthier habits. It examines the benefits of mindful movement through yoga and its role in strengthening relationships as we age. The hosts discuss the challenges of staying motivated with diet and exercise while sharing humorous tales from Italy, balancing indulgence with activity. They delve into the mindset surrounding fitness, emphasizing that true wellness goes beyond workouts to include nutrition and enjoyment.

Jan 11, 2025 • 15min
The One About Fiber
A personal power outage story highlights community bonds in challenging times. The challenges of rural connectivity reveal a blend of skepticism and excitement in switching to fiber internet. The hosts delve into their experiences with Ubiquity network solutions, addressing high-speed downloading ups and downs. Recent government efforts boost fiber availability in remote areas, while personal safety and local storage solutions come into play. A lively chat about smart home tech emphasizes the need for a solid network, sprinkled with humorous moments.

8 snips
Dec 29, 2024 • 17min
The One About the Software Developer's Career Handbook
The discussion highlights the journey of revising 'Being Geek' into 'The Software Developer's Career Handbook.' Insights into transitioning from manager to executive reveal valuable perspectives for future leaders. The complexities of rebranding a book are explored, emphasizing its unique leadership angle for tech enthusiasts. There's a fascinating dive into neurodiversity in the engineering community, addressing identity within the 'geek' culture. Lastly, the speakers share their creative process, the balance of productivity, and the humor found in the chaos of publishing.

Dec 28, 2024 • 25min
The One About World Building
In our 87th episode, we talk about world-building, but we mostly talk about shows that we love with a minimal amount of spoiler alerts.

Dec 2, 2024 • 21min
The One About Gifts and Bees
In our 86th episode, we talk timepieces (again), and then we somehow segue to bees. Brace for it.

Nov 11, 2024 • 15min
The One About Dapper
Discover the transformative power of dressing dapper as a form of emotional armor. The conversation dives into how outfit choices boost confidence and create a sense of personal security, introducing the intriguing concept of 'fuck you outfits.' Explore the evolution of personal style over time and the joy of self-expression through fashion, particularly the significance of shoes. Minimalism gets a shoutout too, highlighting how Steve Jobs' wardrobe simplicity contributed to his focus and effectiveness. It's all about how what we wear can truly influence how we feel!

7 snips
Aug 31, 2024 • 19min
The One About Rabbit Holes
Explore the pitfalls of constant busyness and discover the value of efficient time management. Dive into the fascinating world of TIG welding and the importance of feedback in technical fields. Uncover how deep engagement can enhance creativity and problem-solving, all while seeking balance in personal and professional life. Delve into the complexities of international software development amidst cultural nuances. Finally, learn about prioritizing strategic thinking in leadership, especially in a post-pandemic world.

9 snips
May 5, 2024 • 24min
The One About Your AI Tools
The podcast delves into various use cases of AI tools like Chat GPT, emphasizing critical thinking in research and combating misinformation. It also discusses the changing perception of computers as research assistants, reflections on Facebook's impact, OpenAI's evolution, and the applications of AI tools in design, finance, and gaming.

Mar 20, 2024 • 23min
The One About Timepieces
In our 82nd episode, we talk watches I mean horology I mean chronophiles or maybe timepieces.