Key ideas from Michael Ovitz

• "I didn't go into business to win a popularity contest. I went into business to win" - Michael Ovitz on his competitive philosophy
• CAA never lost a client during Ovitz's tenure by implementing teamwork where all clients had multiple agents staying informed
• "Knowledge is power. It works for you if you embrace it, use it, read, and try to index it in your head for context"
• Ovitz maintained a 200-magazine monthly reading list at CAA to stay conversant across multiple disciplines and industries
• "There's always another rodeo" - Michael Crichton's advice to Ovitz about bouncing back from failures and setbacks
• CAA kept a list of 400 people who helped them early on, ensuring all got jobs or financial support when needed
• "Failure in American society is a badge of honor. We all fail. You just get back up on your horse and keep riding"
• Ovitz believes business leaders should have five years of running any business before holding elected office as mayor, governor, or president