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FoundersOctober 30, 2018
#44 A Memoir by the Cofounder of Microsoft
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About This Episode
What I learned from reading Idea Man: A Memoir by the Cofounder of Microsoft by Paul Allen --- I was 21 years old and at loose ends (0:01) how Paul Allen works (4:09) coming up with the idea for Microsoft (4:48) admiring Bill Gates' bravado (7:56) advice from his father: do something you love (12:30) "Paul is an 'enthusiast' and when in the grip of an enthusiasm is almost totally irresponsible in other areas. How can one help such a student to see the error of his ways ? I don't know. He could even be more right than we, who knows ?" (18:30) Going deep on subjects that interested him (20:56) Paul's first jobs (24:14) Paul Allen and Bill Gates first business (26:44) New Mexico and the start of Microsoft (31:37) We were certain that the tech establishment was wrong and we were right (34:40) Unequal cofounders (37:29) Starting to grow Microsoft (39:00) Unequal cofounders part two (41:00) Early Microsoft culture: When I talk about the early days at Microsoft, it's hard to explain to people how much fun it was.( 46:43) Turning down a millions of dollars from Ross Perot (53:37) Unequal cofounders part 3 (56:54) The deal that led to Microsoft becoming the largest tech company of its day (58:00) Health crisis and Paul Allen leaves Microsoft (1:05:30) His most important realization (1:09:27) How Paul makes $75 million from AOL (1:13:00) I start from a different place , from the love of ideas and the urge to put them into motion and see where they might lead (1:18:10) ---- Founders Notes gives you the ability to tap into the collective knowledge of history's greatest entrepreneurs on demand. Use it to supplement the decisions you make in your work. Get access to Founders Notes here. ---- “I have listened to every episode released and look forward to every episode that comes out. The only criticism I would have is that after each podcast I usually want to buy the book because I am interested so my poor wallet suffers. ” — Gareth Be like Gareth. Buy a book: All the books featured on Founders Podcast
Book Mentions
2 book mentions in this episode.
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Books Mentioned
Idea Man
Paul Allen
“The speaker discusses 'Idea Man', a memoir by Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, and reflects on its significance after Allen's passing.”
Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: Paul Allen's life changes
For: Entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts
Key quote: “So this book was on my list.”
The host mentions 'Idea Man' to provide insight into Paul Allen's life and his partnership with Bill Gates during their formative years. The discussion is prompted by Allen's recent passing, which led the host to prioritize this memoir for exploration.
ASIN: N/A
Buy on AmazonClick the book cover image to open the affiliate link.
Setting the Table
Danny Meyer
“The speaker references 'Setting the Table' by Danny Meyer while discussing the importance of pursuing one's passion in life.”
Sentiment: Deep Dive
Trigger: importance of pursuing passion
For: aspiring entrepreneurs and individuals seeking career fulfillment
Key quote: “you realize that you're gonna be dead way longer than you are alive basically saying hey you have such a short time period that you actually are alive why are you gonna waste it doing something you don't love”
The host discusses the significance of following one's passion, referencing Danny Meyer's journey from a successful salesman to a renowned restaurateur. The mention of 'Setting the Table' highlights how personal experiences and advice can shape entrepreneurial paths.
ASIN: N/A
Buy on AmazonClick the book cover image to open the affiliate link.