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. 

Links and Resources:

Books by 37signals

Sign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.com

HEY World | HEY 

The REWORK podcast

The Rework Podcast on YouTube

The 37signals Dev Blog

37signals on YouTube

@37signals on X 

37signals on LinkedIn