Distributed.

Mastering communication and teamwork as a remote engineer with Callie Buruchara

Jan 30, 2025

42:13

How do soft skills shape success in a remote-first world?

In this episode of the Distributed podcast, Host Jack Hannah chats with Callie Buruchara, Senior Software Engineer at Uplift Agency, to explore how mastering communication and emotional intelligence (particularly in a remote work setting) can transform your career. Callie shares her journey from high school English teacher to software engineer and how her people-first approach became her superpower.

Plus, hear Callie’s take on balancing deep work, managing expectations, and why some of the toughest lessons often come from unexpected places.

Highlights:

Navigating remote work dynamics and adapting to different communication styles to foster collaboration and reduce misunderstandings
The power of emotional intelligence in building trust and resolving conflict within distributed teams
Callie’s strategies for balancing prioritization, managing time effectively, and protecting mental health
Why addressing friction early and practicing honest communication strengthens team dynamics
How soft skills, like empathy and vulnerability, often play a pivotal role in technical success

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) – Kicking Things Off with Callie Buruchara

(01:12) – Why Soft Skills Define the Majority of Work

(03:27) – The Real Challenge in Tech: It’s Not JavaScript, It’s People

(08:06) – How to Navigate Conflicting Communication Styles at Work

(12:16) – Managing Priorities in a Remote Setting Without Explicit Cues

(17:59) – Handling Workplace Conflict: Say Something Before Anger Takes Over

(22:23) – When Ignoring Friction Backfires: A Story of Team Breakdown

(28:33) – The Hidden Struggles of Remote Work: Loneliness and Lost Signals

(33:46) – The Feedback Litmus Test: How to Grow in Communication Skills

(39:54) – The Hardest Part of Remote Work: Recreating Spontaneity

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