Software Developers Journey

From humble beginnings working on a spreadsheet application to grappling with the rapid transformations in the developer industry, Lilly Chen's journey through the software realm has been nothing short of fascinating. With experiences ranging from the challenges of being a first-time manager to the profound influence of mentors who "lifted as they climbed," Lilly offers a unique perspective on growth, resilience, and paving the way for others.Lilly placed the start of her journey in high school, where she spent more days out than in high school. She told us about her health problems and how she spent a year as a monk in a monastery in China. We spoke of people lifting her and how she returned to the USA. We discussed her college studies and the people who made a long-lasting impact on her. We talked about how she became a developer, her first memorable interview, and how she slowly entered the world of startups. We finally talked about Contenda, the company she created.In this episode, Lilly takes us from her first steps into software development to her present-day leadership role at Contenda. She delves into the challenges and triumphs she has faced, highlighting the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way. With a focus on mentorship and the pivotal role early managers play in shaping a career, Lilly stresses the significance of receiving guidance and providing it to the next generation of developers.If you want to learn more about the ethos of "lifting as you climb" and get inspiration from Lilly's incredible journey, tune in to this episode!Three Compelling Reasons to Listen to the Full Episode:Lilly's vast experience, from starting coding at 8 to becoming a CEO, offers unique insights into the ever-changing tech landscape, perfect for anyone at any stage of their tech career.The episode delves deep into the importance of mentorship. Hearing about the roles a monk and many people played in Lilly's journey underscores the value of guidance in a developer's path.Lilly emphasizes "lifting as you climb", shedding light on the critical responsibility that comes with growth and leadership in tech, making it a must-listen for aspiring tech leaders.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Stepping into the tech world is one thing, but embracing it with a passion for teaching and enhancing the way technology is learned represents a calling of a different order. Felienne Hermans' life has been a vibrant blend of software development, advocating for better ways of teaching coding and recognizing the importance of guiding the young generation into the programming world. Her journey from receiving her first computer and experiencing unique educational opportunities to her innovative software projects speaks volumes of her dedication.Interestingly, Felienne placed the start of her journey right when she got her Ph.D. in Computer Science and faced the "now what?" She told us how she enrolled as a high-school computer science teacher and failed flat on her face, teaching 12 years old kids the same way she used to teach 18 years olds. We then explored how we learn, becoming less and less terrible at teaching 12-year-olds and gradually building Hedy, a programming language designed for kids to learn programming.In this episode, Felienne discusses her foray into the world of tech and how she transformed from perceiving herself as a genius child to realizing the privileges she was afforded. She delves into the importance of teaching, her six-year tenure as a high school teacher, and her involvement in the Headey software project. She emphasizes understanding one's interests and skills to find a sustainable and impactful career path.If you are interested to learn more about the evolution of tech education and get inspiration from Felienne's incredible journey, then tune in to this episode!Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Discover Felienne's unique perspective on the importance of recognizing early privileges and their pivotal role in one's professional journey.Gain insights into the art of adaptable teaching and how pushing students beyond their comfort zones can lead to significant growth and understanding.Learn the importance of aligning passion with skills and sustainability, guiding principles that Felienne believes are key to forging a successful and impactful career.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

In the ever-evolving realm of software development and testing, it's rare to encounter someone with as vast and varied an experience as Steve Upton. From his early foray into quality assurance to his insights on teamwork and agile methodologies, Steve's journey offers a lens into the nuanced world of development from a quality-first perspective.Steve placed the start of his journey coding in YABASIC on a PS2 and creating the infamous program "Insultor." Fast forward a few years, he graduated with a CS degree, and having worked as an intern at IBM; he applied for a graduate program. We discussed how he was given a "tester" role, which incidentally defined the rest of his career. We talked about testing practices at IBM, adversarial relationships with devs & moving to the polar opposite in a high-performing team Here. We discussed what "quality" really means, and then we talked about the hiring process, biases, working in the open (and writing blogs about backpacking trips with a GPS), the transition, and what he learned Here. We finally talked about his current work as a consultant for ThoughtWorks and how he would advise learning more about quality.In this episode, Steve shares his thoughts on the significance of agile testing and recommends foundational books. He delves into his experiences, highlighting the importance of a whole-team approach and the continuous pursuit of better, alternative software development and testing methods.If you want to learn more about agile testing methodologies and get inspiration from Steve's incredible journey, tune in to this episode!Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Get insights from Steve Upton's journey, from quality assurance to deepening into software development. Learn the importance of focusing on the end user's needs and overall usability.Understand the value of the Agile methodology, particularly the "whole team approach." This episode delves into the strong interdependency of development and testing, highlighting the need for seamless communication and collaboration.Discover invaluable resources and books Steve recommends for anyone venturing into software development and testing. Benefit from foundational knowledge and practical advice to propel your career forward.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

The realm of software development is as vast as it is intricate. For Cory O'Daniel, it's been a journey marked by coding and understanding the deeper nuances of being a software developer. Cory took a detour, discovering that there's more to the world of tech than just writing code – there's a profound beauty in problem-solving, connecting with peers, and carving out personal space in a rapidly evolving remote work landscape.Cory placed the start of his journey in high school, modding Duke Nukem 3D. He then described how working a data-entry job in a hospital to make ends meet got him to automate his work through coding. He talked about his college physics major and the dire future it promised and how he chose to major in Networking and Computer Science instead. We then went from one job to the next. Ditching the first job requiring a suit and tie (but where he was caught reading the D&D reference manuals during his work) for Californian startups where he could wear shorts & teeshirts. We talked about the colorful startups he experienced and the crazy technical contraptions some of those required. We talked about becoming a Digital Nomad before iPhones were a thing. And finally, we touched on Massdriver, Cory's current company.In this episode, Cory O'Daniel invites us into his world, sharing his unique transition from hands-on coding to leadership and his candid thoughts on the art of balancing remote work. He touches upon the necessity of asynchronous communication, the serenity in pacing during calls, and the sometimes underrated joy of turning off video feeds. Through his journey, we see a reflection of modern-day work challenges and how passion, adaptability, and a dash of humor can make all the difference.If you want to learn more about the intricacies of remote work and derive inspiration from Cory's remarkable journey, this episode is a must-listen!Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Discover Cory's Unique Journey: Understand Cory's non-traditional path into software development, offering inspiration for those overwhelmed by the learning curve.Insights on Remote Work: With remote work becoming the norm, Cory's pioneering experience offers invaluable advice on effective communication, multitasking, and cultivating team camaraderie.Evolution in Tech Career: Dive deep into Cory's transition from hands-on coding to leadership roles, emphasizing the significance of soft skills, continuous learning, and adaptability in the tech world.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Unfolding the story of a truly diverse career trajectory, Mirjam Aulbach joins us to share her captivating journey from pursuing an accounting career and dog training to evolving into a full-fledged software developer. Mirjam's tale isn't just about career changes; it's about her lifelong passion for coding and how she kept it alive while juggling multiple roles in different domains, highlighting the power of persistence and dedication in shaping one's career.In this episode, Mirjam opens up about her unconventional journey into software development, her experiences working with different teams, and her transition to remote work during the pandemic. She also talks about her perspective on testing and her side project, 'Conference Buddy'. Mirjam's unique experience enables her to bring invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of social sciences, understanding emotions, and software development.If you want to learn more about the dynamics of transitioning careers and maintaining a balance between diverse roles and get inspiration from Mirjam's incredible journey, tune in to this episode!Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:This episode offers an intriguing perspective on how understanding human behavior and emotions can positively impact software development and team dynamics.Mirjam's career changes offer valuable insights into career shifts, the importance of community support, and the role of continuous learning in personal growth.Her emphasis on the importance of software testing and her experiences with open-source development offer valuable insights, particularly for developers interested in these areas.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Nnenna Ndukwe is a seasoned software developer who profoundly understands the essence of community and its value in shaping one's career journey. In a world often dictated by individual prowess, Nnenna's story is a testament to the power of shared wisdom and the transformative capacity of communal learning in the tech industry. With a passion for continuous growth and a heart to impact others, her story reverberates the truth that one's journey can indeed inspire the journeys of many others.Nnenna placed the start of her journey in a tanning salon, where she spent her breaks and quiet time on Codecademy and FreeCodeCamp. From there, she spoke about her one-way ticket to Boston, how she immersed herself in communities and followed her insatiable curiosity. She talked about her boot camp and how she found a job. She discussed working in the open and how it led to her dev advocacy role.In this episode, Nnenna discusses her journey from curiosity to proficiency in the world of coding and how being part of tech communities played a crucial role in her growth. Her emphasis on skipping lessons that others have already learned, and the value of listening to the stories of others, offers profound insights into learning and career growth. She also touches upon the joy she derives from mentoring and the sense of fulfillment she gets from seeing newcomers progress in their tech careers.If you want to learn more about the influential role of communities in career development and get inspiration from Nnenna's incredible journey, tune in to this episode!Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Nnenna's journey into tech is inspiring, and it serves as a reminder that patience, persistence, and curiosity are vital elements to succeeding in coding and programming.Nnenna shares practical insights on the power of community engagement, mentorship, and self-advocacy in tech, which can guide newcomers in navigating their tech careers.The conversation offers concrete advice for overcoming common hurdles such as self-doubt, which could resonate with many individuals at different stages of their tech journey.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Phil Alves, founder of DevSquad and LiveStats, is a software entrepreneur driven by building impactful solutions. From his humble beginnings, coding at age 12, to becoming a leader of development teams, his path has been marked by curiosity, determination, and a desire to improve developers' lives.Phil placed the start of his journey with Flash and ActionScript and then with PHP, with which he created his first business at the age of 16. We then discussed learning in the open, growing and selling his business. Moving to the USA, returning to school, and taking his first (and last) "job." We talked about his side business, which became DevSquad, his company of 100 people now. We talked about product developers vs. software developers. We discussed development cycles and customer relations. And we finished talking about the SaaS business he is creating, DevStats, and how to create hyper-performing teams.In this episode, Phil discusses his journey from a self-taught developer to an entrepreneur creating high-performing development teams. He delves into the challenges of growing a company and transitioning from deep work to managerial tasks. He also shares insights on building a solid company culture, fostering efficiency, and promoting a balance between productivity and preventing burnout. The conversation further delves into the role of data in improving team performance and the importance of product mindset in developers.If you want to learn more about fostering high-performing development teams and get inspiration from Phil's incredible journey, tune in to this episode!Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Learn from Phil Alves' journey from being a self-taught programmer to a successful entrepreneur. His experiences offer a unique perspective on the different paths one's career in tech can take.Understand the importance of strong company culture and the role of data in improving team performance. These are critical elements that can contribute to the success of any tech team.Gain insights into the importance of a product mindset in developers. This can help aspiring developers understand their work's broader impact and become more effective team contributors.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Join us in this enlightening conversation with Chris Zimmerman, the co-founder of Sucker Punch Productions, the powerhouse behind globally successful games like Infamous and Ghost of Tsushima. Chris started his journey as a software developer and evolved into a trailblazer in the gaming industry, showing the same resilience and innovation in his career as the characters in his games do.Chris placed the start of his journey in the mid-70s, programming games for an Apple II computer. During childhood, he was passionate about games and programming and enrolled in a CS Degree at Princeton. After his degree, he worked at Microsoft for ten years before leaving with other Microsoft alumni to create the Sucker Punch game studio. We then discussed what he took from this career into the next. An excellent discussion ensued about what makes Sucker Punch a unique place, Chris' vision and leadership, his philosophy, and the book he wrote to help 22 years old passionate developers grow.In this episode, Chris shares his journey from his early years coding games on Apple II to pioneering Sucker Punch Productions. He talks about the fascinating process of game development, how it intertwines with storytelling, and the importance of adaptability in this ever-evolving industry. Chris also offers candid advice to aspiring game developers, emphasizing the importance of being self-starters and taking initiative to create and complete projects.If you are interested to learn more about the unique blend of storytelling and programming in game development and get inspiration from Chris's incredible journey, then tune in to this episode!Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Gain insights from Chris Zimmerman's vast experience, from starting with an Apple II to co-founding a successful game studio, Sucker Punch Productions. His story is a testament to the importance of passion, persistence, and creativity in the world of software development.Discover the behind-the-scenes process of developing popular games like Infamous and Ghost of Tsushima. Chris shares interesting details about the collaboration between developers and story writers, emphasizing the significance of creativity in game development.Get practical advice on how to break into the gaming industry. Chris offers invaluable tips, like being a self-starter and taking responsibility for your code, which can be beneficial for aspiring game developers.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Inspiring Tech Leaders - The Technology PodcastInterviews with Tech Leaders and insights on the latest emerging technology trends.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Chelsea Troy, an inquisitive software engineer, data scientist, and respected educator, passionately shares her story, from the impactful challenges she faced in the nascent stage of her journey to her growth into a successful developer and teacher. Chelsea found her love for software development and data science in a winding path full of determination and resilience. Her inspiring story is a testament to her belief in the importance of accessible education and the potential that can be unleashed when suitable teaching methods are employed.Chelsea placed the start of her journey in undergrad with the insightful tale of an introduction to programming class involving a peanut butter & jelly sandwich. We then discussed how one teacher cut her wings by telling her she "lacked the intellectual firepower" to become a dev. She went on to study to become a spy instead. Just before entering this world, she realized she had missed the feeling she had had during this first programming class and decided to embrace development in a boot camp. We talked about her learning habits and how they helped her get a job at Pivotal Labs; we talked about legacy code and how those learning habits helped her become excellent at gaining context.In this episode, Chelsea eloquently articulates her career path and educational philosophies. She talks about her experiences dealing with discouraging feedback, the importance of reframing such experiences as learning opportunities, and how she overcame hurdles to become a proficient developer. Chelsea also highlights her views on the importance of a holistic approach to teaching, emphasizing designing accessible pedagogy. Throughout the conversation, she presents various book recommendations for those interested in software development and data engineering.If you are interested in learning more about accessible education and pedagogy, and getting inspiration from Chelsea's incredible journey, tune in to this episode!Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:You will gain invaluable insights into overcoming initial hurdles in your programming career from Chelsea Troy's personal experiences and her resolute determination to succeed.Chelsea's deep analysis of the tech industry culture, diversity, and inclusivity, paired with her pedagogical approaches, can provide an excellent perspective for those wanting to make a positive change.Her practical advice on dealing with imposter syndrome, continuous learning, and navigating the education landscape as a student or teacher can benefit both new and experienced tech professionals.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Inspiring Tech Leaders - The Technology PodcastInterviews with Tech Leaders and insights on the latest emerging technology trends.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Sev placed the start of her journey back in China as a child passionate about maths and logic. She then described how she struggled to find her way through education after losing her hearing. She talked about how she could go to the USA and study Information Technology at Gallaudet University. She then spoke about the Microsoft Explorer Program, which allowed her to dip her toes into software development and realize she was unprepared for more. We discussed how she enrolled in a Computer Science Master's degree at Washington State University and how different her curricular and extracurricular experience was compared to Gallaudet's. We finally talked about her returning to Microsoft, being part of a team, how teamwork makes diversity, working on Loop, and the future of collaboration.Here are the links from the showsevhuffman@gmail.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sev-huffman-87404295/https://www.deafspotlight.org/https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-loopCreditsCover Legends by HoliznaCC0 is licensed CC0 1.0 Universal License.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Inspiring Tech Leaders - The Technology PodcastInterviews with Tech Leaders and insights on the latest emerging technology trends.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show