DonTheDeveloper Podcast

Agentic coding isn't software engineering. If you've been coding for a while, it doesn't give you the same rewards. Yet some developers are all too eager to let their skills atrophy and outsource the fun parts of being a developer to an AI, instead of fixing the root issue - their skill issue. This is mainly targeted towards junior developers, but a lot of this applies to more experienced developers as well. Or it will, once they let their skills atrophy.---------------------------------------------------

Are you struggling with motivation on your learning to code journey? It could be poor goal setting. It could be that trying to find a job is suppressing your curiosity and excitement for coding. It could very well be that software engineering isn't what you initially thought it was. But almost certainly, what I share in this has or is hurting your motivation more than you think.---------------------------------------------------

Imposter syndrome as a junior developer has been normalized WAY TO OFTEN. Imposter syndrome is a signal that there's a more deeply rooted issue that needs to be resolved. Sometimes, and a lot of people aren't going to like this, it's actually just a skill issue.---------------------------------------------------

I've worked with a lot of great developers, but 3 developers on 3 different teams really stood out to me. Here's what people admired about them.Always remember, there are MANY ways to be successful as a developer. It's okay to be socially awkward even. I know a ton of people are worried about their personality fitting in. You just have to make up for it in other ways...---------------------------------------------------

Are you learning to code while working a full-time job, taking care of family, or other heavy responsibilities? We need to have an honest conversation. More importantly, I want to talk about the mindset that'll help you survive the journey.---------------------------------------------------

Have you ever wondered how much time you should invest into different things when learning to code? Then this one's for you. I also shared advice and most importantly the right perspective for standing out in the job search.---------------------------------------------------

The popular MERN stack tutorials and the larger JavaScript ecosystem in general has failed to prepare junior developers for professional jobs. This is a rant about that...---------------------------------------------------

I ran Linux desktop as my daily driver for 2 months - dev, streaming, gaming. Here's the straight rundown: what worked, what broke, and what I'd do differently if I tried again.---------------------------------------------------

The reality of being a dev is that you're capable of a future that goes way past the limits a company allows you to work within. Just in case devs forgot, I wanted to record this reminding them of that, and ultimately why I left the industry.---------------------------------------------------

Tried agentic coding while building a Twitch analytics feature for Twitch Sprout and... I hated it. It bloated the code, ignored library features, and turned me into a spec-writing code reviewer instead of a dev. I also shared where AI has helped as well.---------------------------------------------------

I've been skeptical of AI for a long time - tired of the hype, the slop, and the talk about replacing developers. But as a one-person business, I can't ignore its potential. In this episode, I break down why I'm doubling down on AI for the next few months: testing its limits, exploring real use cases, and seeing if it actually makes my life easier… or if I'll end up saying I was right to be skeptical all along. ---------------------------------------------------

It's been a while since I've created a video. I just wanted to provide an update with what's going on with coding, fitness, and the future of content on my channel.---------------------------------------------------

One of the more difficult things junior developers seem to struggle with is knowing what portfolio projects to build to be marketable and competitive in the job search. I went over a variety of types of projects and how much they help you stand out among your competition.Not only that, but I went over the pros and cons of each, misconceptions of what is common but ineffective advice given around these projects, and how to be effective at making the more marketable options even more impressive.If you're wondering what types of projects to build for your portfolio to stand out, this one's for you.Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify---------------------------------------------------

I switched to Linux Desktop from Mac/Windows. I use it as a daily driver now. Here are the reasons why I finally made the switch. I shared a lot of the software I use for ALL of my needs. If you're a live streamer, developer, or gamer, and you're considering switching, hopefully this video will help with your decision to switch or not.---------------------------------------------------

Scrimba is just starting to release fullstack/backend courses. They're going to be starting with 8 courses: Suppabase, Command Line Basics, Express, SQL, Nuxt, Vite, Next, and Node. I shared my honest thoughts on some of the courses, who they're for, and what part of your journey you should consider going through them.---------------------------------------------------

Rant about how black-pilled aspiring developers who choose to be victims are poisonous to all other aspiring developers.---------------------------------------------------

Almost every professional developer should be building side projects and here's why.---------------------------------------------------

Building a NestJS course for Scrimba and other channel & life updates---------------------------------------------------

Here are a few warning signs that the self-taught developer path may not be for you.---------------------------------------------------

Just finished your coding bootcamp and wondering what the heck to do next? Maybe you're a bit worried about the job market for coding bootcamp grads. If so, this one is for you.---------------------------------------------------

I dive into three common mistakes that hold aspiring developers back. If you're serious about breaking into tech, staying motivated, and leveling up your skills, this one is for you!---------------------------------------------------

Why are so many aspiring developers burning out or giving up? In this, I explore how a lack of curiosity is holding back the new generation of junior devs. We'll dig into why blindly following “popular” paths can kill your motivation, and how embracing exploration, passion, and genuine excitement for tech can reignite your learning journey. If you're feeling stuck or unmotivated, this might be the wake-up call you need.---------------------------------------------------

I'm calling out five big misconceptions about becoming a frontend developer that might be wrecking your progress. I talk about whether you actually need backend skills to land a frontend gig, if you should learn Next.js, and even if you should learn Tailwind. There's more I dive into, so if you're aiming to become a frontend developer, this one's for you.---------------------------------------------------

In this, I break down five major mistakes that can instantly sabotage any junior developer's chances of landing a real coding job. I'll talk about how inconsistent coding habits, half-finished side projects, and a questionable online presence are some of the biggest turn-offs for hiring managers, along with one or two surprises you might not expect. If you're serious about becoming a software developer, you'll want to hear about these red flags so you can sidestep them and stand out from the crowd. This isn't about shaming newbies. This is about leveling up and showing recruiters and hiring teams you're serious.---------------------------------------------------

In this, I break down why every junior developer needs a capstone project that goes beyond simple tutorial or clone apps. I share why code-along and copycat projects may reinforce your skills, but ultimately fall short in showcasing true problem-solving ability. Instead, I explain how to create a meaningful project built around something you genuinely care about—one that solves real problems, targets real users, and demonstrates practical, hirable skills.I discuss how capstones teach user-centered thinking, why it's essential to iterate over months (not days), and how to utilize feedback. You'll hear tips on brainstorming ideas from your previous industry experience or personal passions, plus the importance of picking a marketable tech stack and sticking with it long enough to master it. While freelance projects, open-source contributions, and smaller practice apps have their place, your capstone is the real game-changer that can set you apart from hundreds of other junior developers.If you're tired of being “just a code monkey” and ready to show you can tackle actual product development, user feedback loops, and innovative features, this one is for you. Whether you're aiming for a product-based company or even planning to monetize your own application, a well-executed capstone project proves you've got what it takes. Let's move beyond surface-level projects and create a robust portfolio piece that tells the world, "I'm serious about software development."---------------------------------------------------

Here's what I have planned for 2025, but also, we need to talk about the state of many aspiring developers out there right now...---------------------------------------------------

Struggling with your New Year's resolutions each year? Maybe you're not ready to make any. Try this instead.---------------------------------------------------

I'm done with frontend. It's time to become a backend developer, and here is why...---------------------------------------------------

Ever wondered what it takes to create a course that truly makes an impact? In this episode, I sit down with Lane Wagner, the creator of Boot.dev, to dive deep into the philosophy and decisions behind one of the most comprehensive backend development platforms out there.Lane shares his journey from a backend developer to an educator, revealing the challenges, insights, and strategies that helped Boot.dev stand out in a crowded market. Whether you're an aspiring course creator or an aspiring backend developer looking for inspiration, this behind-the-scenes look offers invaluable lessons on teaching backend development the right way.Lane Wagner (guest):Twitter - https://x.com/wagslaneLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wagslaneWebsite - https://www.boot.devBoot.dev Metrics - https://blog.boot.dev/education/state-of-learning-to-code-2024---------------------------------------------------

Thinking about starting a side hustle or launching your own app? In this episode, I chat with the founders of Little Planets about their journey from idea to execution. We dive into their challenges, tech stack choices, marketing struggles, and valuable lessons learned along the way. Perfect for developers looking to turn their passion projects into reality!James Ebentier (guest):Twitter - https://x.com/jebentierLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jebentierWebsite - https://jamesebentier.comDanny Peck (guest):Twitter - https://x.com/upwithdannyLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannypeckWebsite - https://www.dannypeck.com---------------------------------------------------

In this episode, I talk with two senior developers, Danny Peck and John Ostler, as they share the real story behind their side project journey—the good and the bad. They delve into their experiences building Golden Record, an app designed to preserve personal memories through audio recordings. Despite their extensive backgrounds in development, Danny and John discuss the unexpected challenges they faced, from technical hurdles to marketing struggles, and the reality of making little revenue in the early stages.If you're a developer contemplating starting your own side project or looking to turn a hobby into a business, this conversation is packed with invaluable insights. Learn from their successes and failures as they offer candid advice on what it truly takes to bring a project to life, maintain momentum, and navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship in the tech world.Watch this episode to gain knowledge, inspiration, and a realistic perspective on transforming a developer side hustle into a viable startup.Website: https://www.goldenrecord.appDanny Peck (guest):Twitter - https://x.com/depJohn Ostler (guest):Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwostler---------------------------------------------------

Here's where I share my goals, failures from last month, and what I'm going to do about it next month. The goal of this is to just provide some transparency into my own struggles with trying to grow and provide community updates.---------------------------------------------------

This episode explores why many aspiring developers who start with intense excitement and motivation often end up quitting. Overexcitement can lead to unrealistic expectations and burnout, derailing your coding journey. Learn how to recognize this pattern, set achievable goals, and build sustainable habits to successfully navigate the path to becoming a developer.---------------------------------------------------

Are your personal projects failing to get you hired? In this video, I break down the common mistakes aspiring developers make with their projects and why they aren't standing out to employers. Many think that just building a variety of projects is enough, but the scattershot approach often misses the mark. I'll guide you through a more strategic way to approach personal projects that will resonate with hiring managers.We'll dive into the importance of targeting your projects towards the industry you care about, building meaningful and professional-looking projects, and understanding the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) concept to know when a project is truly "done." I'll also discuss how unfinished projects on your GitHub can send the wrong signals about your commitment and consistency.Throughout the video, I encourage you to think beyond just coding for the sake of it. You need to create something that solves real problems, adds value, and even gains users. I'll share tips on showcasing your projects effectively to signal your potential as a valuable developer who can contribute real results.If you're tired of your personal projects feeling like wasted efforts, watch this video to learn how to build projects that actually catch the eye of employers. Don't just build—build with purpose, build with strategy, and start turning your ideas into assets that move your career forward.---------------------------------------------------

Feeling stuck in your dev job? You're not alone. In this, I'm breaking down why so many developers end up in dead-end positions and, more importantly, how you can break free. No fluff, just real talk about what's holding you back and what you can do about it.I've been there—comfortable, bored, and not growing. If your job is sucking the life out of you, it's time to shake things up. We'll chat about why personal projects are game-changers, how to push for more responsibility at work, and why networking isn't just for extroverts (even if it feels awkward as hell).---------------------------------------------------

In this video, I'm going over three key ways you can level up as a junior developer. These aren't magic tricks or quick fixes; they're real strategies that many successful developers have adopted.First, we'll talk about why mastering the fundamentals matters more than you think and how it sets you up for success beyond just following tutorials. Then, I'll cover the importance of improving your process and why planning your work can set you apart from other juniors. Finally, we'll dig into soft skills—how to build better relationships with your team and why this often overlooked aspect can make or break your career.This isn't just about coding; it's about becoming a developer who understands the bigger picture. Let me know in the comments if these resonate with you or if you have other ways you've leveled up in your journey.---------------------------------------------------

Breaking into tech is tougher than most people think, and the journey to becoming a developer is filled with misleading promises and unrealistic expectations. In this video, I'm pulling back the curtain and sharing the brutal truth about why most aspiring developers fail to land their first job—and how you can avoid making the same mistakes.We'll dive deep into the biggest misconceptions about salaries, the harsh reality of the learning curve, and why simply knowing how to code isn't enough. This isn't about discouraging you; it's about preparing you for what's ahead so you can succeed where others give up.Whether you're just starting or feeling stuck in your coding journey, this video will challenge your mindset, ground your expectations, and give you the no-BS advice you need to keep going when things get tough. If you're serious about becoming a developer, you need to hear this.---------------------------------------------------

In this video, I'm diving into why senior developers often refuse to mentor junior developers. If you've been struggling to find a mentor, it might be because of some common mistakes that are easy to fix but often overlooked. I'll share five harsh truths that explain why senior devs aren't jumping at the chance to help you—and, spoiler alert, it's not just about them being too busy.This isn't about sugarcoating; I'm here to call out some real issues that might be holding you back, like not taking the initiative, showing inconsistent effort, and having unrealistic expectations. If you're serious about growing as a developer, this video is for you. Let's break down what it takes to truly earn mentorship and become the kind of developer others want to help.---------------------------------------------------

In this video, I'm going to dive into one of the most controversial topics in the developer community—gatekeeping. I know it's a term that gets thrown around a lot, usually with a lot of negativity. But today, I'm here to tell you why you should actually be thanking developers who are accused of gatekeeping the industry.I'm not here to sugarcoat things. If you're struggling to break into the industry and blaming it on so-called gatekeepers, you might need a reality check. The truth is, these developers aren't keeping you out—they're setting a standard that will push you to become better. I'll share four solid reasons why their tough love is exactly what you need to hear if you're serious about becoming a successful developer.Whether you're frustrated by the high expectations or feeling overwhelmed by the amount of learning ahead, this video will help you understand why embracing these challenges is essential for your growth. It's time to stop complaining and start appreciating the developers who hold you to a higher standard, because they might just be the ones who care about your success the most.---------------------------------------------------

As many of you know, learning to code as an adult with a full plate of responsibilities is no small feat. Over 75% of you watching my channel are over 25 years old, so I get it—you're balancing jobs, family, relationships, and more. In this video, I dive into the gritty reality of what it takes to succeed in learning to code when you're not just out of high school, but a real adult with serious responsibilities.I'm going to be brutally honest here: if you're making excuses about not having enough time to learn to code, you need to stop lying to yourself. The truth is, it's not about having time; it's about making time. I've been there, and I know the sacrifices you'll need to make to achieve your goals. From managing your time effectively to finding the right moments to code, I'll share strategies that can help you navigate this challenging journey.If you're serious about becoming a developer, you'll need to learn how to balance your responsibilities while staying consistent with your learning. I'll cover practical advice on how to create blocks of focused time for coding, the importance of building good habits, and even how to handle burnout through mindfulness and lifestyle changes. Whether you're a parent, working full-time, or juggling multiple commitments, this video is for you.---------------------------------------------------

When I was trying to break into the software development field, I used to dread rejection. Every rejection email, every interview where I was told I wasn't a good fit—it all felt like confirmation that I wasn't cut out for this. As someone without a CS degree, I constantly battled that voice in my head telling me I didn't belong, that I wasn't smart enough. But over time, I learned that rejection wasn't just inevitable—it was essential for my growth as a developer.In this video, I share my journey of overcoming rejection and why you should embrace it as part of your coding journey. I talk about the importance of self-assessment, how to use rejection to improve your skills, and the value of building a system that keeps you motivated and focused on your goals, even when things get tough.If you're struggling with job rejections or feeling stuck in your learning process, I hope this video gives you some practical advice and encouragement to keep moving forward. Remember, every rejection is a stepping stone to becoming a better developer.---------------------------------------------------

Hey everyone! I'm starting a new series (monthly) where I get real about my goals, challenges, and the changes I'm making. From recording a LOT more Youtube videos to reviving old projects and setting ambitious 28-day goals, I'm sharing it all. I'll be sharing channel & community updates in this series as well.---------------------------------------------------Disclaimer: The following may contain product affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. I will only ever provide affiliate links for apps that I've used and highly recommend.My #1 recommended FRONTEND course (15% off):https://v2.scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloperMy #1 recommended BACKEND course:boot.dev - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"

Learning to code can feel like a grind, and for some, the passion might never develop. In this video, I respond to a viewer who's feeling burned out and frustrated, questioning if they'll ever truly enjoy coding. I'll discuss the reality that, for some people, the passion for coding might never develop, and that's okay. Maybe coding isn't the right fit, and there's no shame in that. I also talk about the possibility that passion could come with time, but it's important to be honest with yourself about what excites you. If you're struggling to find joy in coding, this video might help you figure out your next steps.---------------------------------------------------Disclaimer: The following may contain product affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. I will only ever provide affiliate links for apps that I've used and highly recommend.My #1 recommended FRONTEND course (15% off):https://v2.scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloperMy #1 recommended BACKEND course:boot.dev - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"

Today, we're diving into a topic that might ruffle some feathers: the traditional developer portfolio. It's time to rethink what we've been told about showcasing our skills. I've got Derek Wood with me, a seasoned web developer and director at Perpetual Education, who believes the typical developer portfolio just doesn't cut it anymore. We'll explore why the old patterns don't work and how you can create a more personalized and impactful portfolio that really tells your story and makes you stand out. Let's get into it and discover how you can showcase your true potential in a way that catches employers' eyes.Derek Wood (guest):Website - https://sheriffderek.consulting---------------------------------------------------Disclaimer: The following may contain product affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. I will only ever provide affiliate links for apps that I've used and highly recommend.My #1 recommended FRONTEND course (15% off):https://v2.scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloperMy #1 recommended BACKEND course (25% off):https://boot.dev/?via=donthedeveloper

Can you really afford to uproot your life for a new developer job offer? With the alarming trend of companies, including big names, rescinding signed offers, please listen to this if you're looking for your first or next developer job.---------------------------------------------------Disclaimer: The following may contain product affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. I will only ever provide affiliate links for apps that I've used and highly recommend.My #1 recommended FRONTEND course (15% off):https://v2.scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloperMy #1 recommended BACKEND course (25% off):https://boot.dev/?via=donthedeveloper

Here are 3 traits in aspiring developers that I've noticed, who eventually break into the industry.---------------------------------------------------Disclaimer: The following may contain product affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. I will only ever provide affiliate links for apps that I've used and highly recommend.My #1 recommended FRONTEND course (15% off):https://v2.scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloperMy #1 recommended BACKEND course (25% off):https://boot.dev/?via=donthedeveloper

I ran 8 students through an experimental frontend cohort for 6 months. We used Scrimba's Frontend Developer Career Path for the curriculum. I went through it myself, with my students, and here are my honest thoughts about Scrimba's program. If you're a self-taught developer and have come across Scrimba, but haven't decided if it's worth it, this honest review is for you.---------------------------------------------------Disclaimer: The following may contain product affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. I will only ever provide affiliate links for apps that I've used and highly recommend.My #1 recommended FRONTEND course (5% off):https://v2.scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloperMy #1 recommended BACKEND course (25% off):https://boot.dev/?via=donthedeveloper

Are coding bootcamps worth it on 2024? Absolutely. Let's talk about why that is.---------------------------------------------------

If you have ADHD and you're looking for strategies to be successful with your learning to code journey, this episode is for you.Henry Lam (guest):Website - https://www.adhdcoachingnearme.com---------------------------------------------------

Whenever aspiring developers hear that they need to "network", it tends to illicit thoughts of stuffy networking events and social anxiety. I think people just over-complicate what networking really is about. It's just about building meaningful relationships with someone else you vibe with on some level. In this podcast episode, I shared my mindset and version of networking that I really think you should consider.---------------------------------------------------

Ready to bridge the developer skill gap and set yourself up for success in the tech industry? Join me and my guest, Derek Wood, better known as Sheriff Derek, as we dissect the growing disparity between what employers expect and the current skill levels of many budding developers. We dive into why foundational skills are critical and how bootcamps sometimes fall short in preparing students for real-world challenges.Curious about the role of gatekeeping in tech and how it affects newcomers? We explore the evolving concept and its impact on aspiring developers. Sheriff Derek shares candid advice on avoiding the common pitfalls of coding bootcamps and stresses the importance of strategic self-branding. By focusing on developing core proficiencies and understanding industry expectations, you'll be better equipped to navigate your tech career without falling into financial strain or feeling unprepared.But it's not all about the grind—discover how to find joy in your programming journey and build meaningful, impactful projects. Sheriff Derek and I discuss the importance of celebrating small wins, integrating creativity into your work, and engaging with the tech community. Learn practical tips for continuous learning, networking, and creating projects that showcase your problem-solving skills. Whether you're new or junior in the field, this episode is packed with actionable advice aimed at helping you thrive and find fulfillment in your tech career.Sheriff Derek (guest):Website - https://perpetual.educationWhat If? So What?We discover what's possible with digital and make it real in your businessListen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify---------------------------------------------------