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Ovitz: Dealmakers and founders must never dwell on lost deals or mistakes

Michael Ovitz · Founder of CAA Michael Ovitz: "I Just Knew I Was Going to Outwork Every One of Them" · Aug 9, 2026 · at 47:59

Michael Ovitz, co-founder of CAA, shares his mindset regarding losses and failed deals in business, referencing Barry Diller's philosophy.

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“You can't look back. I am so upset when friends of mine that try to do deals that I consult on, and they make a mistake or they lose it, and then they dwell on it. It's dumb. It's not going to change. So what are you looking back for? I don't like to look backwards. I think you have to always look forward.”

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