Founder and CEO of 37signals (makers of Basecamp, HEY, and ONCE) Jason Fried joins the podcast for a wide-ranging conversation covering software products and services, saying ‘no’ to millions, learning drums, and more. Jason shares his unique perspectives on building and running a hugely successful software company while staying true to his values.

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We Explore:

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• The motivation behind Basecamp's recent expansion into new products like email and calendar apps
• How Jason and his co-founder have structured the company to maximize independence and avoid things they don't want to do
• Thoughts on wealth and what he plans to do with the financial success of Basecamp
• Current interests and passions outside of work, and what he would do if he couldn't run Basecamp anymore
• Books and favorite products

Whether you're a tech entrepreneur or simply fascinated by the career of one of the industry's most unconventional and opinionated leaders, Jason's experiences and philosophies are sure to challenge and inspire you. Tune in for an honest and spontaneous discussion touching on the deepest questions in life and business.

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Resources Mentioned

• Drumeo
• Decent Espresso Machine
• 1978 Porsche 928
• Books: The Old Man and the Sea, The Overstory, Rabbit is Rich
• Hey Calendar
• Once
• Campfire

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Chapters

00:00 - Introduction
2:20 - Inspiration Behind Hey Calendar
3:47 - Fantastical vs. Hey Calendar
4:55 - What Keeps Jason Going
7:24 - Why Hey Calendar Caps at $99
9:09 - Jason’s Commitment to Independence
12:59 - Limits to Improvement and Acceptance
15:56 - Jason’s Plans on Growing His Business
19:12 - Learning to Trust CEO Hires
20:59 - Why Jason Decided to Build New Products After 10 Years
24:21 - Changing Your Mind & Balancing Growth and Maintenance
28:06 -Keeping Businesses Simple
32:20 - What Jason Does With His Money
36:28 - The Courage to Close A Business
39:42 - The Burden of Wealth: Philanthropy and Responsibility
42:43 - Finding Joy in Spaces and Experiences
45:11 - Alternate Career Paths Jason is Drawn To
48:01 - The Future and Existential Worries
52:56 - Growing Old, the Younger Generation, and Life
59:27 - Things Jason Has Been Loving Lately
62:49 - Embracing Fiction: The Power of Storytelling

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Follow Jason on:

Twitter/X: @jasonfried

‍LinkedIn: @jason-fried

37signals: https://37signals.com/