Founders – #317 Ed Catmull (Pixar)

Intro

In this episode of the “Founders” podcast, Patrick O’Shaughnessy interviews Ed Catmull, the co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios. Catmull shares insights into his journey with Pixar, his collaborations with Steve Jobs and George Lucas, and the importance of building a sustainable, creative culture. He also discusses his book “Creativity Inc.” and the lessons he learned along the way.

Main Takeaways

Obsession for Product Quality

• Ed Catmull, Steve Jobs, and George Lucas shared an obsession for product quality.
• Protecting Pixar from destructive forces led Catmull to focus on building a sustainable, creative culture.
• Quality is the best business plan.

Collaborations and Inspirations

• George Lucas hired Catmull to merge high technology with the film industry.
• Proximity to Silicon Valley gave Catmull a front-row seat to observe emerging hardware and software companies.
• Walt Disney inspired Catmull with his ability to create a made-up world using cutting-edge technology.
• Catmull worked with Steve Jobs for 26 years and gained insight into his entrepreneurship.

Building Pixar

• Pixar was born out of George Lucas’s interest in using computers to enhance filmmaking.
• Catmull partnered with Lucas to create Pixar, which eventually became a leader in computer animation.
• Pixar went through constant searching for a business model, eventually focusing on computer animation.
• Pixar developed technology for Disney animation, leading to a successful partnership and eventual acquisition.

Lessons in Leadership

• Catmull emphasizes the importance of having a brilliant team over a good idea.
• Candor and conflict are essential for growth and testing of ideas.
• Setting deadlines and embracing limitations can lead to innovation and problem-solving.
• Exceptional companies understand their weaknesses and work to improve them.

Steve Jobs and Pixar

• Steve Jobs believed in the power of storytelling and clear communication.
• Jobs’s passion for excellence and commitment to innovation influenced his decision-making.
• Pixar played a role in Jobs’s transformation into a fairer, wiser, and smarter person.
• The acquisition of Pixar by Disney highlighted Jobs’s recognition of Pixar’s value.

Summary

Ed Catmull’s Journey and Pixar’s Success

Ed Catmull’s collaboration with George Lucas and Steve Jobs, along with his proximity to Silicon Valley, shaped his journey in merging technology with the film industry. Catmull’s dedication to protecting Pixar from destructive forces led him to build a sustainable, creative culture. The book “Creativity Inc.” explores the founding story of Pixar and Catmull’s life, offering valuable insights on achieving goals and building exceptional companies.

Lessons in Leadership and Innovation

Catmull emphasizes the importance of having a brilliant team and fostering a culture of candor and conflict. Setting deadlines and embracing limitations can lead to innovation and problem-solving. Exceptional companies understand their weaknesses and work to improve them. Quality is the best business plan, and every interaction associated with a company should be excellent to build a strong reputation.

The Influence of Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs’s collaboration with Catmull and Pixar showcased his passion for storytelling, clear communication, and commitment to excellence. Jobs’s transformation over the years, influenced by his involvement with Pixar, led him to prioritize creating utilitarian things that brought joy and made the world a better place. The acquisition of Pixar by Disney highlighted Jobs’s recognition of Pixar’s value and his strategic decision-making.

Conclusion

Ed Catmull’s journey with Pixar, his collaborations with Steve Jobs and George Lucas, and his insights into building a sustainable, creative culture offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and leaders. The importance of product quality, a brilliant team, and a commitment to excellence shines through Catmull’s experiences and the success of Pixar.