
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

Aug 13, 2024 • 16min
"Learning To Code Feels Like A Chore. Will I Ever Develop Passion For This?"
Learning to code can feel like a grind, and for some, the passion might never develop. In this video, I respond to a viewer who's feeling burned out and frustrated, questioning if they'll ever truly enjoy coding. I'll discuss the reality that, for some people, the passion for coding might never develop, and that's okay. Maybe coding isn't the right fit, and there's no shame in that. I also talk about the possibility that passion could come with time, but it’s important to be honest with yourself about what excites you. If you're struggling to find joy in coding, this video might help you figure out your next steps.---------------------------------------------------🔥 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 6, 2024 • 58min
The Typical Developer Portfolio MUST Die
Today, we're diving into a topic that might ruffle some feathers: the traditional developer portfolio. It's time to rethink what we've been told about showcasing our skills. I've got Derek Wood with me, a seasoned web developer and director at Perpetual Education, who believes the typical developer portfolio just doesn't cut it anymore. We'll explore why the old patterns don't work and how you can create a more personalized and impactful portfolio that really tells your story and makes you stand out. Let's get into it and discover how you can showcase your true potential in a way that catches employers' eyes.Derek Wood (guest):Website - https://sheriffderek.consultingDigital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify---------------------------------------------------🔥 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

Jul 29, 2024 • 15min
Do NOT Move For Your Next Developer Job
Can you really afford to uproot your life for a new developer job offer? With the alarming trend of companies, including big names, rescinding signed offers, please listen to this if you're looking for your first or next developer job.---------------------------------------------------🔥 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

4 snips
Jul 22, 2024 • 19min
3 Qualities I've Noticed in Successful Junior Developers
Discover three essential traits that successful junior developers share: curiosity, passion for coding, and a commitment to continuous learning. The importance of soft skills such as communication and humility is highlighted, showing that these can often surpass technical knowledge in a competitive industry. Grit and problem-solving abilities are also discussed as key characteristics that pave the way for growth and achievement in the tech world.

Jul 15, 2024 • 47min
My HONEST Review of Scrimba's Frontend Developer Career Path
The speaker dives into a six-month trial of Scrimba's Frontend Developer Career Path, sharing personal insights and the program's strengths in HTML, CSS, and UX design. Accessibility's importance in web development is emphasized, alongside critiques of Scrimba's curriculum updates and job search strategies. While the platform shows promise, concerns about technical glitches and areas lacking focus, particularly in JavaScript, are raised, along with suggestions for supplementary resources to enhance the learning experience.

Jul 8, 2024 • 18min
Coding Bootcamps ARE Still Viable in 2024
The discussion dives into the value and effectiveness of coding bootcamps as a career springboard in 2024. It emphasizes the importance of researching programs to align with personal career goals. Listeners learn about the critical transition after bootcamp, focusing on hands-on project work, building a professional presence, and networking. There’s a challenge to the myths surrounding coding education, underscoring the need for practical skills and initiative to thrive in the tech landscape.

Jul 1, 2024 • 55min
Learning To Code With ADHD
If you have ADHD and you're looking for strategies to be successful with your learning to code journey, this episode is for you.Henry Lam (guest):Website - https://www.adhdcoachingnearme.comDigital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify---------------------------------------------------🔥 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

Jun 24, 2024 • 24min
How To Actually Network as a Junior Developer (Keep It Simple)
Whenever aspiring developers hear that they need to "network", it tends to illicit thoughts of stuffy networking events and social anxiety. I think people just over-complicate what networking really is about. It's just about building meaningful relationships with someone else you vibe with on some level. In this podcast episode, I shared my mindset and version of networking that I really think you should consider.Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify---------------------------------------------------🔥 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

Jun 10, 2024 • 1h 18min
We Need To Bring "Gatekeeping" Back To Web Development
Ready to bridge the developer skill gap and set yourself up for success in the tech industry? Join me and my guest, Derek Wood, better known as Sheriff Derek, as we dissect the growing disparity between what employers expect and the current skill levels of many budding developers. We dive into why foundational skills are critical and how bootcamps sometimes fall short in preparing students for real-world challenges.Curious about the role of gatekeeping in tech and how it affects newcomers? We explore the evolving concept and its impact on aspiring developers. Sheriff Derek shares candid advice on avoiding the common pitfalls of coding bootcamps and stresses the importance of strategic self-branding. By focusing on developing core proficiencies and understanding industry expectations, you'll be better equipped to navigate your tech career without falling into financial strain or feeling unprepared.But it’s not all about the grind—discover how to find joy in your programming journey and build meaningful, impactful projects. Sheriff Derek and I discuss the importance of celebrating small wins, integrating creativity into your work, and engaging with the tech community. Learn practical tips for continuous learning, networking, and creating projects that showcase your problem-solving skills. Whether you’re new or junior in the field, this episode is packed with actionable advice aimed at helping you thrive and find fulfillment in your tech career.Sheriff Derek (guest):Website - https://perpetual.educationDigital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify---------------------------------------------------🔥 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

Jun 3, 2024 • 26min
The Cold Application Approach Is DEAD For Developers
I answered an aspiring developer's question:"In late 2022, I decided to get into SE to become a front end dev and decided to join an in-person bootcamp in 2023 to accelerate my learning. Choosing the bootcamp route over traditional schooling seemed like a quicker path into the field, especially since I'd already been self-studying beforehand. While the bootcamp experience was great, it left me feeling underprepared in key areas like Javascript, with the curriculum heavily focused on React. I earned a certificate and made my portfolio site to host my projects, but landing my first job has proven to be an uphill battle. I've been applying weekly for about 8 months now, even to listings I wasn’t ‘qualified’ for due to needing “”x amount of years of experience”” for entry level positions. I’ve spent the past half year studying Javascript to make up for the lack of JS in my bootcamp, and am still submitting applications almost daily. The 8 months and counting pursuit of an entry-level position across various job titles—front end dev, graphic design, UI engineer etc—has resulted in less than a dozen rejections, which at this point, I'm looking forward to since it’s better than hearing nothing at all. Soon, I won't be able to hold out financially, and I’ll have to find a full time job and inevitably run out of time in my personal life to code at all which is frustrating and heartbreaking, since I’ve grown to love coding, especially designing and building components and sites. TLDR; I’m just trying to get into my first position. I don't care if it’s writing HTML or CSS, hell at this point, I’ll do coffee runs for developers if it means I can actually get into a company. It has probably never been a worse time to get into software engineering, and I find myself actively telling younger family members who ask about it to go for something ‘more stable’ when ironically, was the sentiment I received when inquiring about software engineering.. This WAS the ‘stable’ career, until it wasn’t. I’m desperate for any advice on what to do at this point, maybe even going back to school if it betters my chances!"Digital Disruption with Geoff Nielson Discover how technology is reshaping our lives and livelihoods.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify---------------------------------------------------🔥 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