Not Another CEO Podcast | Pioneering Tech and Culture - Donna Dubinsky - Palm & Handspring

Pioneering Tech and Culture - Donna Dubinsky - Palm & Handspring - Episode #82

January 20, 2026 / 01:10:07/E82

How do you create a work culture that stands out and inspires team loyalty across multiple companies? In this episode, we gain valuable insights on this and more from the illustrious career of Donna Dubinsky.

Known for her pivotal roles at Palm Computing and Handspring, Donna offers a rare long-term perspective on leadership, culture, and the technological landscape that has spanned decades.

Takeaways:

The Importance of Building a Strong Culture: Donna emphasizes that a great company starts with great people. She shares the crucial role a positive culture played in her companies, stating that when you foster an environment people love, they follow you from venture to venture.
Adaptability is Key: One of the most sought-after traits in employees, according to Donna, is flexibility. She highlights the importance of hiring individuals who are not rigid in their thinking but can pivot and grow with the company.
Challenges of Raising Capital: Donna recounts the struggles in securing investment for Palm, despite her extensive network. She faced skepticism from investors due to previous failures in handheld computing and the prioritization of internet ventures over hardware.
Reflective Organizational Planning: Donna shares her strategic approach to planning through biannual offsites, fostering a culture of reflection and adjustment. These sessions not only solidified strategic objectives but also enhanced team camaraderie through collaborative efforts and fun activities.
Maintaining Integrity and Respect: Donna’s overarching advice is to treat everyone with respect. This principle was foundational in building the cultures of her companies and remains a critical lesson for sustainable leadership.

Quote of the Show:

“I really appreciated people who could deal with change. Changing circumstances, changing environment, changes within the company, as opposed to people who were rigid." - Donna Dubinsky

Ways to Tune In: