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Scotts Valley Today
By the People, for the People
Netflix Co-Founder Gives 'Tough Love' Advice to Aspiring Writer
Marc Randolph encourages writer to stop waiting for an agent and start creating.
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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In a 2021 Reddit AMA, a young aspiring writer asked Netflix co-founder Marc Randolph for advice on pitching ideas to the streaming giant without an agent. Randolph responded with 'tough love', telling the writer that they already have all the tools needed to start creating, and that the focus should be on the creative process itself, not fame or fortune. He stressed the importance of practice and self-accountability, saying 'the only person holding you back is you'.
Why it matters
Randolph's advice highlights the challenges many aspiring creatives face in breaking into the entertainment industry, and the importance of taking initiative and focusing on the craft rather than external validation or financial success.
The details
Randolph encouraged the writer to simply start creating, whether that's writing a movie or making a film, rather than waiting for an agent or traditional publishing path. He emphasized that talent comes from practice, not permission, and that once someone develops real talent, the industry will take notice. Randolph's own journey with Netflix shows how an idea can grow into a massive success through persistence and a focus on the creative process.
- In a 2021 Reddit AMA, the writer asked Randolph for advice.
- Netflix officially launched its website in April 1998.
The players
Marc Randolph
The co-founder and first CEO of Netflix, with an estimated net worth of $100 million.
Reed Hastings
The co-founder of Netflix alongside Marc Randolph.
Netflix Inc.
The American subscription streaming service and production company, with a market capitalization of $336.21 billion.
What they’re saying
“If you really want to write a movie — just write one… If you want to make a movie — just make one. You have all the tools you need.”
— Marc Randolph, Co-founder and first CEO of Netflix (Reddit AMA)
“If you want to get rich and famous from making movies… you are doing it for entirely the wrong reasons. But if you love the process of creation — then just create.”
— Marc Randolph, Co-founder and first CEO of Netflix (Reddit AMA)
“If you are not talented, the very act of doing it over and over again will help you develop the skills to be talented.”
— Marc Randolph, Co-founder and first CEO of Netflix (Reddit AMA)
“The only person holding you back is you.”
— Marc Randolph, Co-founder and first CEO of Netflix (Reddit AMA)
What’s next
Randolph's advice encourages the writer to start creating content and building their skills, rather than waiting for external validation or representation. The writer could potentially share their work online or through other self-publishing platforms to start building an audience and gaining industry attention.
The takeaway
Randolph's 'tough love' advice highlights the importance of taking initiative, focusing on the creative process, and developing one's skills through practice, rather than waiting for permission or external success. His own journey with Netflix demonstrates how an idea can grow into a massive business through persistence and a dedication to the craft.
