"At first, Bond’s and Spencer’s personal styles clashed, and the two sought out Microsoft human resources chief Kathleen Hogan for coaching, an unusual step that Hogan found admirable. Bond recalls Spencer and others at Microsoft telling her that her tendency to “push the envelope” and “not let something go” was new to them.

Microsoft is laying off another 650 employees from its Xbox gaming workforce. As reported by IGN, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer sent a memo to staff members today, September 12, informing them that the decision was made to "organize our business for long term success" and will mostly affect corporate and support functions.

Microsoft gaming chief Phil Spencer speaks at this year's Penny Arcade Expo in Seattle. (Photo courtesy of Dabe Alan / Penny Arcade) This year’s Penny