#131 What Scott Hanselman learned from 900 podcast interviews with devs
Jul 5, 2024
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A chat with Scott Hanselman covering remote team leadership, his educational journey, software insights from 980 podcast interviews, and a side of punk bass. Topics include arcade gaming, remote work challenges, tech evolution through daily objects, lifelong learning in tech, algorithms' impact on content curation, intentional career choices, and diving into C sharp development.
Versatility is key for developers to survive in various contexts like a Swiss Army Knife.
Preserving retro computing tech data highlights challenges and solutions in old and new systems.
Continuous learning, humility, and problem-solving skills are crucial for personal growth and luck in opportunities.
Deep dives
The Swiss Army Knife Developer Analogy
Becoming a Swiss Army Knife developer entails embracing versatility like the multifunctionality of a Swiss Army Knife. Despite not excelling in everything, this approach encourages a broad understanding that aids survival in various contexts.
Delving into Retro Computing and Tech Evolution
Exploring retro computing showcases the intricate evolution of technology, from floppy disks to modern upscalers. The discussion highlights the interplay between old and new systems, emphasizing the challenges and solutions encountered in preserving, extracting, and adapting historical tech data.
Cultivating Humility and Continuous Learning
Embracing humility and a constant thirst for knowledge exemplify a dedication to learning. Setting limits in exploration and recognizing personal expertise boundaries serve as vital heuristics for balancing deep dives into subjects, encouraging growth while respecting practical constraints.
Building a Portfolio and Solving Real Problems with Programming
Learning and practicing programming languages, such as JavaScript and C sharp, can be beneficial for individuals looking to enter the tech industry. Creating a portfolio website and tackling real-world problems with technology, like building sensor systems with Raspberry Pi and C sharp, can enhance your skills and demonstrate practical experience. Scott emphasizes the value of problem-solving and hands-on projects in showcasing your capabilities to potential employers.
Opportunities and Preparation in Creating Luck
Scott discusses the concept of luck as a combination of preparation and opportunities. He highlights the importance of being ready for opportunities by staying prepared through continuous learning and skill development. Scott suggests that individuals can increase their chances of luck by actively seeking out and creating opportunities, whether through networking, showcasing their work, or engaging with potential job prospects. By emphasizing the role of readiness and actively seeking out opportunities, Scott encourages listeners to take proactive steps in shaping their own luck.
On this week's episode of the podcast, freeCodeCamp founder Quincy Larson interviews Scott Hanselman. Scott's a developer at Microsoft, a prolific teacher, and has hosted the Hanselminutes podcast for nearly two decades.
We talk about:
- How he leads a fully-remote team from his home of Portland, Oregon
- His 11-year journey to getting his degree
- What he learned from teaching programming at community college
- What he's learned about software development from recording 980 podcast interviews across 20 years
Can you guess what song I'm playing on my bass during the intro? It's from a 1994 punk song.
Also, I want to thank the 9,779 kind people who support our charity each month, and who make this podcast possible. You can join them and support our mission at: https://www.freecodecamp.org/donate
