
DonTheDeveloper Podcast
Helping aspiring developers get jobs and junior developers grow. Raw and unfiltered conversations with industry professionals that dive deep into how developers can find success and growth in their careers.
Latest episodes

Sep 16, 2024 • 16min
How Overexcitement Derails Aspiring Developers
This episode explores why many aspiring developers who start with intense excitement and motivation often end up quitting. Overexcitement can lead to unrealistic expectations and burnout, derailing your coding journey. Learn how to recognize this pattern, set achievable goals, and build sustainable habits to successfully navigate the path to becoming a developer.---------------------------------------------------🔥 Webdev Career Help - https://calendly.com/donthedeveloper/coaching🎮 Join Discord - https://discord.gg/TpQe2k8Ab3❤️ Support What I Do - https://www.patreon.com/donthedeveloperDisclaimer: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. ===========================WEBDEV COURSES I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:🎓 Learn Frontend - Scrimba (20% off): https://scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloper🎓 Learn Backend - Boot.dev (25% off): https://boot.dev/?promo=DONTHEDEVELOPER - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"🎓 Already Experienced? Level Up Here - Code Crafters (40% off): https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=donthedeveloper

Sep 11, 2024 • 17min
Why Your Personal Projects Aren't Getting You Hired
Are your personal projects failing to get you hired? In this video, I break down the common mistakes aspiring developers make with their projects and why they aren't standing out to employers. Many think that just building a variety of projects is enough, but the scattershot approach often misses the mark. I’ll guide you through a more strategic way to approach personal projects that will resonate with hiring managers.We’ll dive into the importance of targeting your projects towards the industry you care about, building meaningful and professional-looking projects, and understanding the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) concept to know when a project is truly "done." I'll also discuss how unfinished projects on your GitHub can send the wrong signals about your commitment and consistency.Throughout the video, I encourage you to think beyond just coding for the sake of it. You need to create something that solves real problems, adds value, and even gains users. I'll share tips on showcasing your projects effectively to signal your potential as a valuable developer who can contribute real results.If you're tired of your personal projects feeling like wasted efforts, watch this video to learn how to build projects that actually catch the eye of employers. Don't just build—build with purpose, build with strategy, and start turning your ideas into assets that move your career forward.---------------------------------------------------🔥 Webdev Career Help - https://calendly.com/donthedeveloper/coaching🎮 Join Discord - https://discord.gg/TpQe2k8Ab3❤️ Support What I Do - https://www.patreon.com/donthedeveloperDisclaimer: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. ===========================WEBDEV COURSES I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:🎓 Learn Frontend - Scrimba (20% off): https://scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloper🎓 Learn Backend - Boot.dev (25% off): https://boot.dev/?promo=DONTHEDEVELOPER - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"🎓 Already Experienced? Level Up Here - Code Crafters (40% off): https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=donthedeveloper

Sep 9, 2024 • 17min
Trapped in a Dead End Developer Job? Here’s How to Break Free.
Feeling stuck in your dev job? You’re not alone. In this, I’m breaking down why so many developers end up in dead-end positions and, more importantly, how you can break free. No fluff, just real talk about what’s holding you back and what you can do about it.I’ve been there—comfortable, bored, and not growing. If your job is sucking the life out of you, it’s time to shake things up. We’ll chat about why personal projects are game-changers, how to push for more responsibility at work, and why networking isn’t just for extroverts (even if it feels awkward as hell).---------------------------------------------------🔥 Webdev Career Help - https://calendly.com/donthedeveloper/coaching🎮 Join Discord - https://discord.gg/TpQe2k8Ab3❤️ Support What I Do - https://www.patreon.com/donthedeveloperDisclaimer: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. ===========================WEBDEV COURSES I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:🎓 Learn Frontend - Scrimba (20% off): https://scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloper🎓 Learn Backend - Boot.dev (25% off): https://boot.dev/?promo=DONTHEDEVELOPER - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"🎓 Already Experienced? Level Up Here - Code Crafters (40% off): https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=donthedeveloper

Sep 6, 2024 • 19min
3 Ways to LEVEL UP as a Junior Developer
In this video, I’m going over three key ways you can level up as a junior developer. These aren’t magic tricks or quick fixes; they’re real strategies that many successful developers have adopted.First, we’ll talk about why mastering the fundamentals matters more than you think and how it sets you up for success beyond just following tutorials. Then, I’ll cover the importance of improving your process and why planning your work can set you apart from other juniors. Finally, we’ll dig into soft skills—how to build better relationships with your team and why this often overlooked aspect can make or break your career.This isn’t just about coding; it’s about becoming a developer who understands the bigger picture. Let me know in the comments if these resonate with you or if you have other ways you’ve leveled up in your journey.---------------------------------------------------🔥 Webdev Career Help - https://calendly.com/donthedeveloper/coaching🎮 Join Discord - https://discord.gg/TpQe2k8Ab3❤️ Support What I Do - https://www.patreon.com/donthedeveloperDisclaimer: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. ===========================WEBDEV COURSES I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:🎓 Learn Frontend - Scrimba (20% off): https://scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloper🎓 Learn Backend - Boot.dev (25% off): https://boot.dev/?promo=DONTHEDEVELOPER - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"🎓 Already Experienced? Level Up Here - Code Crafters (40% off): https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=donthedeveloper

Sep 4, 2024 • 19min
Why Most Aspiring Devs Give Up Within 1 Year (Brutally Honest Advice)
Breaking into tech is tougher than it looks. Many people succumb to misconceptions about salaries and the commitment required. The learning curve can be steep, and simply knowing how to code isn't enough to guarantee success. It's crucial to prepare mentally for the journey and temper your expectations. This candid discussion centers on the reasons aspiring developers give up and offers invaluable advice to keep you motivated during tough times.

Sep 2, 2024 • 16min
5 Ways to Chase a Mentor Away as a Junior Developer
In this video, I’m diving into why senior developers often refuse to mentor junior developers. If you’ve been struggling to find a mentor, it might be because of some common mistakes that are easy to fix but often overlooked. I’ll share five harsh truths that explain why senior devs aren’t jumping at the chance to help you—and, spoiler alert, it’s not just about them being too busy.This isn’t about sugarcoating; I’m here to call out some real issues that might be holding you back, like not taking the initiative, showing inconsistent effort, and having unrealistic expectations. If you’re serious about growing as a developer, this video is for you. Let’s break down what it takes to truly earn mentorship and become the kind of developer others want to help.---------------------------------------------------🔥 Webdev Career Help - https://calendly.com/donthedeveloper/coaching🎮 Join Discord - https://discord.gg/TpQe2k8Ab3❤️ Support What I Do - https://www.patreon.com/donthedeveloperDisclaimer: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. ===========================WEBDEV COURSES I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:🎓 Learn Frontend - Scrimba (20% off): https://scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloper🎓 Learn Backend - Boot.dev (25% off): https://boot.dev/?promo=DONTHEDEVELOPER - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"🎓 Already Experienced? Level Up Here - Code Crafters (40% off): https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=donthedeveloper

Aug 30, 2024 • 18min
You should be THANKING Developers Who "Gatekeep"
In this video, I’m going to dive into one of the most controversial topics in the developer community—gatekeeping. I know it’s a term that gets thrown around a lot, usually with a lot of negativity. But today, I’m here to tell you why you should actually be thanking developers who are accused of gatekeeping the industry.I’m not here to sugarcoat things. If you’re struggling to break into the industry and blaming it on so-called gatekeepers, you might need a reality check. The truth is, these developers aren’t keeping you out—they’re setting a standard that will push you to become better. I’ll share four solid reasons why their tough love is exactly what you need to hear if you’re serious about becoming a successful developer.Whether you’re frustrated by the high expectations or feeling overwhelmed by the amount of learning ahead, this video will help you understand why embracing these challenges is essential for your growth. It’s time to stop complaining and start appreciating the developers who hold you to a higher standard, because they might just be the ones who care about your success the most.---------------------------------------------------🔥 Webdev Career Help - https://calendly.com/donthedeveloper/coaching🎮 Join Discord - https://discord.gg/TpQe2k8Ab3❤️ Support What I Do - https://www.patreon.com/donthedeveloperDisclaimer: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. ===========================WEBDEV COURSES I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:🎓 Learn Frontend - Scrimba (20% off): https://scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloper🎓 Learn Backend - Boot.dev (25% off): https://boot.dev/?promo=DONTHEDEVELOPER - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"🎓 Already Experienced? Level Up Here - Code Crafters (40% off): https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=donthedeveloper

Aug 28, 2024 • 21min
Learning to Code as an Adult (Overwhelmed With Responsibilities)
Learning to code as an adult comes with unique challenges, especially with jobs and family responsibilities pulling at your time. It's not about having enough time; it’s about making it. Discover strategies for effective time management and creating focused blocks for coding. The conversation also covers building good habits and managing burnout through mindfulness. If you’re balancing multiple commitments and serious about becoming a developer, this discussion provides the motivation and practical advice you need.

Aug 26, 2024 • 20min
Tired of Rejection as an Aspiring Developer? Listen To This.
When I was trying to break into the software development field, I used to dread rejection. Every rejection email, every interview where I was told I wasn’t a good fit—it all felt like confirmation that I wasn’t cut out for this. As someone without a CS degree, I constantly battled that voice in my head telling me I didn’t belong, that I wasn’t smart enough. But over time, I learned that rejection wasn’t just inevitable—it was essential for my growth as a developer.In this video, I share my journey of overcoming rejection and why you should embrace it as part of your coding journey. I talk about the importance of self-assessment, how to use rejection to improve your skills, and the value of building a system that keeps you motivated and focused on your goals, even when things get tough.If you’re struggling with job rejections or feeling stuck in your learning process, I hope this video gives you some practical advice and encouragement to keep moving forward. Remember, every rejection is a stepping stone to becoming a better developer.---------------------------------------------------🔥 Webdev Career Help - https://calendly.com/donthedeveloper/coaching🎮 Join Discord - https://discord.gg/TpQe2k8Ab3❤️ Support What I Do - https://www.patreon.com/donthedeveloperDisclaimer: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. ===========================WEBDEV COURSES I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:🎓 Learn Frontend - Scrimba (20% off): https://scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloper🎓 Learn Backend - Boot.dev (25% off): https://boot.dev/?promo=DONTHEDEVELOPER - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"🎓 Already Experienced? Level Up Here - Code Crafters (40% off): https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=donthedeveloper

Aug 19, 2024 • 15min
My Transparent 28-Day Challenge | Building a Startup | Channel & Life Updates
Hey everyone! I’m starting a new series (monthly) where I get real about my goals, challenges, and the changes I’m making. From recording a LOT more Youtube videos to reviving old projects and setting ambitious 28-day goals, I’m sharing it all. I'll be sharing channel & community updates in this series as well.---------------------------------------------------🔥 Webdev Career Help - https://calendly.com/donthedeveloper/coaching🎮 Join Discord - https://discord.gg/TpQe2k8Ab3❤️ Support What I Do - https://www.patreon.com/donthedeveloperDisclaimer: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. ===========================WEBDEV COURSES I HIGHLY RECOMMEND:🎓 Learn Frontend - Scrimba (20% off): https://scrimba.com/the-frontend-developer-career-path-c0j?via=donthedeveloper🎓 Learn Backend - Boot.dev (25% off): https://boot.dev/?promo=DONTHEDEVELOPER - Get 25% off your first payment with code "DONTHEDEVELOPER"🎓 Already Experienced? Level Up Here - Code Crafters (40% off): https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=donthedeveloper