TECH LEADER’S DEATH SPENDING BEHAVIOR

Re the Nov. 28 online story “Tony Hsieh, retired Zappos CEO, dies at 46 after house fire:” I worked with Hsieh in a unique capacity, sharing his insights on business and life through a regular newsletter. I learned a great deal from him over the years.

Hsieh was unafraid of transparency in business — something of which we need more. When we did some deep discovery and found controversial insights, his immediate response was to “send it out to everyone.” No sugarcoating or worrying about how people would respond. He believed that by sharing the good and the bad, you invite more people to come together and build solutions.

He also understood the importance of building workplace culture. The way insiders at Zappos spoke out positively about the company created a fantastic and accurate image that helped draw customers and build a powerful brand.

Most memorably, he exemplified the power of thoughtful introverts.

Hsieh was an amazingly effective communicator, including on stage, even though he was deeply introverted and felt no need for the limelight.

His leadership, thoughtfulness, generosity and commitment to doing good will be sorely missed.

– Jason Korman, CEO, Gapingvoid Culture Design Group,

Miami

While having dinner the other night, I wondered why President Trump does not use the money he is wasting in court fights and give it to the hungry, the poor, the homeless, the unemployed and the sick. I never knew that ego could be such a powerful, awful force.

Now I feel full but also very sad.

– Lazaro G. Martinez, Miami