How I Write

Ted Gioia, a renowned music historian and writer known as 'The Honest Broker,' dives deep into the cultural landscape in this insightful discussion. He critiques our obsession with minimalism and the distractions of modern life, urging a return to beauty and authenticity in writing. Gioia shares his transformative experiences, highlights the importance of honesty, and analyzes the generational shift in creativity influenced by Pythagorean thought. He advocates for a unique writing voice, intertwining personal truth with rich literary traditions in a world craving genuine expression.

In this engaging discussion, Jason Fried, CEO of Basecamp, shares his unconventional approach to business writing that prioritizes clarity and creativity. He emphasizes the power of storytelling in building a dedicated audience and creating excitement around new products. Fried also reflects on the importance of finding your flow in writing and embracing imperfections to enhance authenticity. He critiques the modern reliance on sterile communication and advocates for genuine voices that truly resonate with people, especially in the digital age.

Ana Lorena Fabrega, Chief Evangelist at Synthesis School and author of "The Learning Game," discusses her journey from a frustrated teacher to a beloved author. She shares the seven outdated writing principles to unlearn for a more fulfilling writing experience. Ana emphasizes the importance of personal storytelling, creativity over grammar, and a supportive environment for feedback. With a focus on generating ideas and embracing unique voices, she encourages listeners to share their impactful ideas and transform their writing approach.

Sam Corcos, Founder and CEO of Levels, built a $300 million business on a writing-first culture. He discusses how strategic memos and structured documentation can enhance communication and decision-making. Corcos emphasizes the importance of accurately framing problems to find effective solutions, highlighting practices like 'Async Week' for productivity. He also shares insights on using video summaries for feedback and the value of creating high-quality content to engage teams and foster organizational clarity.

In this enlightening discussion, Paul Millerd, author of 'The Pathless Path', shares his inspiring journey from corporate life to embracing writing as a means of self-discovery. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, urging writers to connect with those who truly resonate with their message. Millerd explores the liberating nature of writing true to oneself and the emotional challenges of crafting compelling narratives. He also reflects on the unpredictability of personal paths and the joy of finding a community that supports creative exploration.

Join Steph Smith, A16Z podcast host and author, as she unpacks how to elevate your writing in a crowded landscape. Learn to find your unique voice, embrace authenticity, and stand out through storytelling. Steph dissects the effects of homogenization on creativity and emphasizes the importance of emotional resonance in connecting with your audience. Discover how to nurture ideas like a garden and balance the paradox of deadlines to enhance productivity. With insights from her success in the digital space, Steph inspires you to unleash your intrinsic interestingness.

In this discussion, Brie Wolfson, an expert on writing-first culture with a rich background at Stripe and work with giants like Amazon, shares her insights on how effective writing fuels business success. She emphasizes that writing is a crucial thinking tool that enhances speed and intention in organizations. Brie delves into the editing process, revealing its importance in crafting compelling narratives. She also explores the balance between writing and action, and how a strong writing culture can transform a company’s growth trajectory.

Explore the unique writing philosophy that emphasizes clarity and simplicity, championed by a Silicon Valley icon. Discover how great writing comes from rigorous editing and the power of curiosity. Uncover the importance of surprising ideas to evoke laughter and insights. Reflect on personal preferences and guilty pleasures to inspire a distinctive voice. Finally, learn about the transformative impact of writing, particularly through personal blogging, on a new generation of creators.

Neil Strauss, renowned author of ten New York Times Bestsellers, dives into the art of vulnerability and honest storytelling. He shares insights on engaging readers with captivating introductions and the delicate balance of self-disclosure. Strauss reveals how to sustain creative momentum, transform unfinished drafts, and develop compelling narratives. He also discusses the unique challenges of writing profiles and mastering authenticity while incorporating elements like seduction and emotional depth into storytelling. This conversation is a must for any aspiring writer!

Shaan Puri, a celebrated entrepreneur and sought-after storyteller, shares his mastery of engaging narratives. He unpacks the power of intention and obstacles in storytelling, revealing how these elements enhance emotional connections. Shaan emphasizes the significance of humor and vulnerability, using personal anecdotes to illustrate his points. He also discusses crafting a 'binge bank' to captivate audiences and the importance of finding a unique voice in writing. With practical insights, he inspires writers to innovate while leaning on effective storytelling techniques.