The Changelog: Software Development, Open Source

Leading a non-profit unicorn (Interview)

Mar 16, 2021

Quincy Larson, founder of freeCodeCamp, shares insights into transforming the platform into a non-profit unicorn. He discusses their ambitious project to expand the Python curriculum into data science and their matching fundraising campaign. Quincy highlights the pandemic's impact on tech education, emphasizing increased user engagement. He also explores the importance of lifelong learning, sleep for productivity, and innovative funding strategies. Through decentralized leadership, he aims to empower community-driven education for all.

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INSIGHT

Pandemic Growth

FreeCodeCamp saw increased usage during the pandemic, especially in locked-down areas.
Usage doubled after the initial lockdowns as people sought new skills.

ADVICE

Recommending FreeCodeCamp

Recommend FreeCodeCamp to anyone asking about breaking into web development.
It provides a good on-ramp for beginners.

INSIGHT

FreeCodeCamp's Team Structure

FreeCodeCamp has a small full-time team and relies heavily on volunteers.
They prioritize internal promotion and contributors with diverse skills.

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This week we’re talking about the future of freeCodeCamp with Quincy Larson and what it’s taken to build it into the non-profit unicorn that it is. They’re expanding their Python section into a full-blown data science curriculum and they’ve launched a $150,000 fundraiser to make it happen with 100% dollar-for-dollar matching up to the first $150,000 thanks to Darrell Silver.

As you may know, we’re big fans of Quincy and the work being done at freeCodeCamp, so if you want to back their efforts as well, learn more and donate.

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Featuring:

Quincy Larson – Website, GitHub, X
Adam Stacoviak – Website, GitHub, LinkedIn, Mastodon, X
Jerod Santo – GitHub, LinkedIn, Mastodon, X

Show Notes:

Something missing or broken? PRs welcome!