Working with a Business Partner
In this week's episode of Rework, host Kimberly Rhodes sits down with Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson to share the essential elements that foster a thriving partnership.
Witness firsthand the enduring stability of their collaboration as Jason and David explore how explicit power-sharing agreements and trust enable each partner to take the lead in their own domain.
Tune in for a vibrant behind-the-scenes look at how mutual admiration and a shared commitment to vision and values has paved the way for Jason and David’s long standing partnership at 37signals.
Check out the full video episode on YouTube
Key Takeaways:
- Jason and David share their origin story—from “Apple” pay to the pivotal transition into a partnership after the Basecamp launch.
- Mutual admiration, respect, and the other factors that contribute to a successful partnership that allow Jason and David to make decisions based on their vision and values.
- The explicit power-sharing agreements that allow each partner to take the lead in their domain—Jason spearheading design and David steering programming.
- The value of embracing distinct dispositions in idea generation and differences in decision-making.
- The importance of engaging in productive—sometimes intense—discussions about product features and ideas.
- How the enduring longevity and stability of their partnership helps Jason and David to consistently reach mutually beneficial decisions.
Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.
If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode.
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