

Ode to RailsConf
David Hill
RailsConf 2025 will be the final RailsConf. Let's talk and share our experiences from attending RailsConf over the years and being part of the Ruby on Rails community.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 12, 2025 • 46min
The Return of Chris Oliver
Send us a textChris Oliver joins us to discuss his experience co-chairing the final RailsConf and provides a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to organize a major tech conference.• Co-chairing RailsConf with Ufuk was an opportunity too good to pass up for the final Rails conference• Site visits to Philadelphia's Sheraton included evaluating spaces for keynotes, breakout rooms, vendor areas and social events• This year attendees will explore Philly for lunch rather than having catered conference meals• Reading Terminal Market is just a 10-minute walk from the venue with incredible food options• The CFP process involved reviewing 250 submissions to select just 29 talks• Initial proposal reviews were anonymized to reduce selection bias• Creating the conference schedule required balancing competing talks across three simultaneous tracks• Booking rooms at the conference hotel supports the event financially and creates more networking opportunities• Meeting people at conferences is easier when you remember everyone shares a passion for Ruby and Rails• Ruby Central maintains critical infrastructure including RubyGems and Bundler beyond organizing conferencesUse code ODE2RAILSCONF at checkout to get 10% off at GoRails.com

May 5, 2025 • 23min
Aryn Chapman
Send us a textAryn Chapman joins us to discuss the vibrant journey of planning RailsConf, highlighting the dynamic collaboration with Ruby Central. She provides an insider's perspective on how event production creates incredible experiences for attendees. • Engaging with Ruby Central for event production • Understanding event logistics and planning strategies • Importance of local culture in shaping conferences • Creating opportunities for attendees to explore Philadelphia • Fostering community through creative engagement at events • Celebrating the legacy of RailsConf as it nears a conclusion Come to RailsConf!

Apr 28, 2025 • 18min
Aji Slater
Send us a textA heartfelt discussion unfolds as we reflect on the significance of RailsConf and what it represents within the Ruby community. Aji shares his journey from a first-time attendee to a program committee member, revealing the growth and connections he’s made along the way. We dive into personal anecdotes that highlight the community's spirit, from the importance of hallway conversations to unforgettable nights spent developing talks with fellow speakers.- Exploring first experiences and impacts of attending RailsConf - Discussing the role and responsibilities of the program committee - Sharing memorable moments that highlight community bonds Thank you for being part of our community and sharing your journey with us!

Apr 21, 2025 • 21min
Rhiannon Payne
Send us a textA heartfelt look back at the RailsConf community and Rhiannon Payne’s journey from an enthusiastic attendee to the marketing director at Ruby Central. We explore the lessons learned and what’s on the horizon for this final RailsConf.- Introduction to Rhiannon Payne and her role at Ruby Central- Journey from RubyKaigi attendance to Ruby Central marketing director- Challenges faced leading up to RubyConf and lessons learned- Excitement and expectations for the final RailsConf celebration- Personal stories that highlight the community spirit of RailsConf- Ruby Central’s initiatives for local meetups and the future of RubyWe encourage you to support the community by attending RailsConf and sharing your experiences!

Apr 14, 2025 • 15min
Jim Remsik
Send us a textWe dive into the heartfelt experiences of Jim Remsick in the Ruby community, exploring the intricate world of conference organization and the importance of authentic relationships in the tech space. Our conversation highlights Jim's insights as co-chair of RubyConf, paving the way towards the upcoming RailsConf.- Discusses the responsibilities of co-chairing a conference - Emphasizes the genuine connections built within the Ruby community - Shares personal reflections on success and community involvement Thanks for tuning in! If you enjoyed the episode, please leave us a review and share it with your friends!

Apr 7, 2025 • 24min
Fable Tales
Send us a textA joyful journey through decades of RailsConf experiences highlighted the importance of community within the Ruby ecosystem. Memories of past conferences, along with the pivotal roles of attendees in shaping the Ruby landscape, showcase the essence of collaboration and connection.• Introduction and sponsorship • Fable Tales shares her journey and first memories of RailsConf • Discussion on the evolution of RailsConf and its community impact • Insights into Fable’s role at Ruby Central and conference organization • Impact of the pandemic on community gatherings and interactions • Final reflections on what RailsConf means for the Ruby community today

Mar 31, 2025 • 28min
Ally Vogel
Send us a textThis episode features an enlightening conversation with Allie Vogel, the operations manager at Ruby Central. We explore how community engagement fuels the Ruby ecosystem through meetups, support programs, and memorable experiences at RailsConf. • Discussion on the importance of Ruby Central • Insights on meetup grants and how they support local communities • Reminiscing impactful experiences from past RailsConf events • Allie's perspective on the future of RailsConf • Tips for those looking to organize Ruby meetups • Closing thoughts on the value of storytelling in the Ruby community The CFP submission deadline is coming up very soon. Please be aware of the various time zones as they will play a critical role in submitting your materials on time.

Mar 24, 2025 • 23min
Freedom Dumlao
Send us a textA journey of technology transformation unfolds as Freedom Dumlao shares his experience migrating from Java to Ruby on Rails amidst the pressure of RailsConf. Highlighting community support, leadership lessons, and the power of practical tech solutions, Freedom offers insights that resonate with developers and leaders alike. • Freedom talks about his background and career journey • Discusses the challenges at Flexcar and the decision to switch to Rails • Recounts the surprising feature in Ira's RailsConf keynote • Details the overnight migration and launch process • Emphasizes the significance of community and support in tech • Reflects on his move to Vestmark and leadership style • Talks about being elected to the Ruby Central board and giving back to the community

Mar 17, 2025 • 26min
Michelle Yuen
Send us a textThis episode explores the transformative experiences of Michelle Yuen at RailsConf, discussing her journey from being a scholar to a guide. We delve into the importance of community, mentorship, and stepping out of one's comfort zone, highlighting how shared experiences foster lasting connections.• Understanding the Scholar and Guide Program • Michelle's first impressions as a RailsConf scholar • The significance of lightning talks for networking • Crowd-sourced research at the planetarium • Building supportive community connections • The importance of unique experiences like solar eclipses • Transitioning roles and paying it forward • Learning through diverse perspectives • The role of social events in forging bonds • The lasting impact of mentorship in tech

Mar 10, 2025 • 25min
Sarah Mei
Send us a textThis episode explores the profound impact of RailsConf through personal anecdotes and reflections shared by Sarah Mei, a long-standing member of the Ruby community. We delve into memorable experiences, community growth, and the evolution of diversity within the tech landscape.• Reflections on the early days of RailsConf • The significance of community and personal connections • Experiences speaking at RailsConf and surprises that arose • Involvement in the Ruby Central board and organizing events • Insights on the importance of representation and inclusion • Emphasizing deeper relationships over casual networking • The ongoing evolution of the Ruby community and RailsConf