The 20 year old has designed for Pinterest; started his own company, Gumroad; and built turntable for iPhone.
Here, he ponders his first memory, the snooze button, and finding success at a young age.
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What is your motto?
I build products that fulfill needs and wants for fun and profit.
What three qualities do you most admire about others?
I like smart, funny, driven people.
What is your idea of happiness?
When one is doing what they want, and realizing that they are.
Where would you most like to live?
I love San Francisco, but would love to live in Istanbul.
Who or what is the greatest love of your life?
I love love itself, for granting me the ability to love.
What is your favorite food?
Black pepper crab!
What three qualities do you most admire in yourself?
Humor, stubbornness, and honesty.
What is your earliest memory?
A birthday present: a blue rocking horse.
What do you admire most about your family?
They prioritize happiness over anything else.
What is a key part of your morning routine?
Hitting snooze.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t take advice. But, do stuff for you and no one else.
Who are your favorite business leaders?
Jeff Bezos.
What is your biggest weakness?
Sensitivity.
What is the last book you enjoyed reading?
A Short History of Nearly Everything.
What did you use your first paycheck on?
Rent, I guess.
How do you survive Mondays?
How do I not?!
What is your biggest fear?
Deprioritizing my own happiness.
Who is the first person you share good news with?
My friend, Tim.
What historical figure would you like to have dinner with?
I prefer eating with those that are alive.
What natural gift would you most like to possess?
I don’t really believe in natural talents.
Who are your heroes?
Those that work really hard for a specific goal.
What’s hanging above your sofa?
A poster of a deconstructed fax machine.
When did you buy your first home?
What? I’m 20.
What can you see from your desk?
Trees. A mural. My coworkers.
How do you take your mind off of work?
By making that word a technicality.
