
COMPRESSEDfm
A weekly podcast about web design and development with a little zest from Amy Dutton and Brad Garropy
Latest episodes

May 13, 2025 • 47min
203 | Feature Flags, Framework Wars, and Landing Your Next Dev Job
Dive into the intriguing world of developer experiences as the hosts tackle the pressures of job interviews and framework debates. They explore why companies are scrutinizing candidates more closely and share effective strategies for those tricky behavioral questions. The discussion heats up over Remix versus Next.js, with strong opinions on both sides. Plus, uncover the magic of feature flags and progressive rollouts from Brad's insights at Stripe, making complex development tasks feel more manageable.

Apr 8, 2025 • 53min
202 | Framework Trade-offs: What Laravel Offers JavaScript Developers
Josh Cirre joins us to discuss his transition from the JavaScript ecosystem to Laravel, revealing why PHP frameworks can offer a compelling alternative for full-stack development. We explore the "identity crisis" many frontend developers face when needing robust backend solutions, how Laravel's batteries-included approach compares to piecing together JavaScript services, and the trade-offs between serverless and traditional hosting environments. Josh also shares insights on Laravel's developer experience, front-end integration options, and his thoughts on what JavaScript frameworks could learn from Laravel's approach to abstraction and infrastructure.Show Notes0:00 - Intro1:02 - Sponsor: Wix Studio1:46 - Introduction to Laravel2:25 - Josh's Journey from Frontend to Backend5:40 - Building the Same Project Across Frameworks6:32 - Josh's Breakthrough with Laravel8:20 - Laravel's Frontend Options10:25 - React Server Components Comparison12:00 - Livewire and Volt13:41 - Josh's Course on Laracasts14:08 - Laravel's DX and Ecosystem16:46 - MVC Structure Explained for JavaScript Developers18:25 - Type Safety Between PHP and JavaScript21:12 - Laravel Pain Points and Criticisms22:40 - Laravel Team's Response to Feedback24:50 - Laravel's Limitations and Use Cases26:10 - Laravel's Developer Products27:20 - Option Paralysis in Laravel30:46 - Laravel's Driver System33:14 - Web Dev Challenge Experience33:38 - TanStack Start Exploration34:50 - Server Functions in TanStack37:38 - Infrastructure Agnostic Development41:02 - Serverless vs. Serverful Cost Comparison44:50 - JavaScript Framework Evolution46:46 - Framework Ecosystems Comparison48:25 - Picks and Plugs Links Mentioned in the EpisodeLaravel - PHP frameworkTanStack Start - React meta-framework Josh created a YouTube video aboutLivewire - Laravel's HTML-over-the-wire front-end frameworkInertia.js - Framework for creating single-page appsVolt - Single file component system for LivewireLaravel Cloud - Managed hosting solution for Laravel applicationsHerd - Laravel's tool for setting up PHP development environmentsForge - Laravel's server management toolEnvoyer - Laravel's zero-downtime deployment toolLaracasts - Where Josh has a course on LivewireJosh Cirre's YouTube channelHTMX - Frontend library Josh compared to LivewireWeb Dev Challenge with Jason Lengstorf (featuring Josh and Amy)Josh Cirre's BlueSky account (@joshcirre)Amy's BlueSky accountBrad's BlueSky account Additional ResourcesLaravel DocumentationSvelte's new starter kit (mentioned as a good example)Nightwatch - Latest product from LaravelLaravel Vapor - Serverless deployment platform for LaravelTheo's Laravel exploration (discussed in the criticism section)Laravel BreezeLaravel JetstreamLaravel Fortify (authentication package mentioned)Adonis.js (JavaScript framework compared to Laravel)Anker USB powered hub (Josh's pick)Grether's Sugar Free Black Currant Pastilles (Josh's pick)JBL Portable Speaker (Amy's pick)

Apr 1, 2025 • 46min
201 | The Backend Dilemma: Laravel's Strengths in a JavaScript World
Dive into the debate between Laravel and JavaScript frameworks! Discover Amy's hands-on experience building with Laravel, and grasp the strengths and weaknesses of both ecosystems. Explore the complexities of context switching and the impact of modern tools on backend development. The hosts discuss the necessity of practical experience while navigating challenges like database management with Eloquent ORM. Plus, enjoy recommendations for gaming and gear that enhance your tech journey!

Mar 19, 2025 • 42min
200 | Creating Databases as Easily as Notion Pages with Prisma Postgres
Join Amy, Brad, and special guest Ryan Chenkie as they unpack Prisma's expanding ecosystem of database tools. Ryan explains why Prisma launched their own hosted Postgres service and what sets it apart from competitors in the space. The trio examines Prisma's comprehensive feature set including Accelerate for connection pooling, Pulse for real-time events, and optimization tools that help identify performance bottlenecks. They also discuss the upcoming transition from Rust to TypeScript for Prisma's core engine, making it lighter and faster. If you've been curious about modern approaches to database management or wondering which ORM is right for your next project, this conversation provides practical insights and expert perspectives.Show Notes0:00 - Intro1:12 - Working with Prisma and Supabase2:29 - Prisma Postgres Introduction4:17 - Why Choose Postgres6:36 - Prisma's Database Adapter Flexibility8:14 - Serverless Database Architecture11:13 - Connection Pooling with Accelerate14:13 - Pulse for Real-time Database Events16:54 - Studio Integration in Prisma Console18:01 - Database Optimization Tools20:00 - Benefits of Prisma Schema Language22:10 - Prisma Schema vs SQL Definitions23:01 - Comparing Prisma and Drizzle26:24 - Future Improvements to Prisma28:52 - Ryan's History with Prisma32:05 - Learning Resources for Prisma33:37 - Picks and PlugsLinks and ResourcesPrisma ResourcesPrisma WebsitePrisma Twitter/XPrisma YouTube ChannelPrisma Postgres DocumentationPrisma ConsolePrisma VS Code ExtensionPrisma AcceleratePrisma PulsePrisma OptimizePrisma StudioRyan Chenkie ResourcesRyan's Website: https://holodeck.runRyan's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@holodeck_runRyan on Twitter/XFramework and Technologies MentionedRemixRedwood JSSupabasePlanetScaleDrizzle ORMPostgresMySQLMongoDBBrad's ResourcesYouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@bradgarropyRemix Starter: https://github.com/bradgarropy/remix-appAmy's ResourcesBuild12 Projects: https://buildtwelve.comOther Resources MentionedSkylight FrameAura FrameNetflix Show: "Making Fun"Netflix Show: "Is It Cake"

Mar 4, 2025 • 34min
199 | AI in Web Design: Balancing Speed with Creativity
Join us as we talk with Nir Sadeh, Head of Product at Wix Studio, about the platform designed specifically for web professionals. Nir breaks down how Wix Studio differs from the traditional Wix editor by offering advanced capabilities for agencies and freelancers. Learn about their newest feature—AI-powered visual sitemaps and wireframes—that helps designers quickly create site structures and get client approval. We also explore how Wix balances no-code solutions with developer flexibility, their approach to responsive design using AI, and opportunities in the Wix app marketplace. Nir shares valuable insights about product development, user research methods, and his perspective on the impact of AI on the future of web design.Show Notes00:00 - Intro01:00 - Journey to becoming Head of Product01:48 - Transition from individual contributor to manager02:21 - Team structure at Wix03:42 - Goal setting and KPIs04:36 - Overview of Wix Studio06:08 - Web-based application functionality07:03 - Code editing experiences in Wix Studio08:07 - Client control and access capabilities09:02 - New features: Visual sitemap and wireframes10:57 - AI integration points in Wix12:35 - AI generating layouts and websites14:50 - Upcoming roadmap items15:54 - User creativity surprises16:12 - Wix app marketplace17:34 - Design trends and components18:59 - User research approach20:57 - Data-driven decision making22:16 - Balancing user preferences with brand goals24:02 - Career advice for aspiring product managers25:40 - Balancing customization and consistency26:44 - Mobile responsiveness and browser support28:06 - Native apps and business management28:37 - SEO tracking and analytics29:45 - Picks and PlugsLinks and ResourcesWix Studio - The professional website creation platform discussed throughout the episodeVelo by Wix - The robust code solution mentioned at 06:45Visual Sitemap and Wireframes - The new AI feature launched by Wix StudioWix App Market - The marketplace where developers can build and sell appsVS Code integration with Wix StudioWix Studio AI Assistant - Mentioned as a coding help featureFigma to Wix - Mentioned as having import capabilities to Wix StudioPicks:Severance (TV Show) - Nir's pickRemix Dev Tools (becoming React Router DevTools) - Brad's pickAeroPress - Amy's previous pick (referenced)Prismo filter - Amy's previous pick (referenced)Milk frother - Amy's current pick

Feb 25, 2025 • 51min
198 | The Great Formatting Debate: ESLint, Prettier, and TypeScript
Josh Goldberg, a full-time open source maintainer and TypeScript author, joins the hosts to discuss the implications of ESLint V9 on the TypeScript ecosystem. He breaks down the challenges of migrating to flat configurations and debates the separation of responsibilities between Prettier and ESLint. Josh shares insights from his journey in open source, the Open Source Pledge initiative, and best practices for integrating linting in CI/CD pipelines. Plus, he spills the details on the inaugural SquiggleConf, filled with innovative ideas for community engagement.

Feb 11, 2025 • 42min
197 | How Jam.dev Turned Bug Reporting Frustration into an 85,000-User Product
Join us for an insightful conversation with Dani Grant, co-founder of Jam.dev, as she shares her journey from Cloudflare PM to startup founder. Learn how Jam.dev persevered through eight failed attempts before finding product-market fit and growing to 85,000 users. Dani reveals valuable lessons about product-led growth, building in public, and raising venture capital. From tactical fundraising tips to creative community building strategies like jam.pizza, this episode is packed with practical insights for founders and anyone interested in the startup journey. SponsorConvex is the backend for founders. Convex is the backend application platform for product-obsessed founders. Show Notes0:00 - Intro0:29 - Sponsor: Convex1:08 - Meeting Dani Grant1:41 - Early Career at Cloudflare3:09 - Finding Internships & Career Growth5:25 - Starting Jam.dev11:56 - Product Evolution & User Growth16:57 - Product Features & Implementation21:22 - Monetization Strategy23:37 - Technical Deep Dive: How Jam Works27:49 - Future Plans & Mobile Development29:12 - Fundraising Tips & Strategies34:00 - Supporting Developer Communities36:18 - Picks and Plugs LinksCompanies/Products:Jam.devCloudflareConvex (sponsor)SentryData DogHotjarFullStoryJIRAMetabaseNotionSocial/Personal:Dani Grant's TwitterDani Grant's email (dani@jam.dev)Brad Garropy's Twitter (@bradgarropy)Learn Build Teach DiscordDeals for Devs projectBooks/Media:"Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow" (book mentioned by Dani)Matt Wolf's YouTube channel (AI recaps)Career Resources:jam.dev/careers (mentioned they're hiring)jam.pizza (community meetup sponsorship form)Technical Tools Mentioned:ViteRemixES BuildProducts Similar to Jam:FullStoryHotjarSentryDatadogDevelopment Tools:Chrome Extension Store (where Jam is available)Community:LearnBuildTeach.comDeals for Devs

Feb 4, 2025 • 52min
196 | Building the Future: Tanstack's Approach to React Server Components
Join us as Tanner Linsley, the creator and founder of TanStack Start talks about its transition from Vinci to a more streamlined architecture built on Nitro. Learn about the framework's innovative approach to server functions, its isomorphic design philosophy, and how it differs from other frameworks like Remix. Tanner also shares insights into TanStack's sustainable open-source business model and his journey to building developer tools that prioritize user experience over rapid growth.Show Notes0:00 - Intro0:38 - Welcome Tanner Linsley3:43 - React Server Components and TanStack Evolution6:04 - TanStack Start Overview and Vinci Transition11:26 - Nitro Integration and Framework Architecture15:19 - Server Functions and Framework Comparisons20:58 - API Design Philosophy24:19 - Testing and Development Process30:58 - Team and Collaboration Discussion33:38 - Open Source Sponsorship Strategy36:32 - Netlify Partnership Announcement38:37 - Open Source Sustainability Discussion41:03 - Picks and Plugs LinksProducts & Tools:TanStackVinxi by Nikhil SarafNitroReact RouterTRPCRemixH3 (web request library)XPro (Tweet Deck)Deck.blue (BlueSky client)MOTU M4 audio interfaceBamboo Lab A1 3D printerLashbrook Designs (Brad's wedding band)Companies & Sponsors:ConvexClerkAG GridSentryNetlifyGames & Entertainment:Blockus (board game)Severance (TV Show on Apple TV+)"First Lie Wins" (book)Personal Projects & Links:buildtwelve.com (Amy's project)Brad on BlueSky (@bradgaropy.com)Nozzle (Tanner's startup)Technical Resources:Babel Dead Code Elimination (by Pedro Katori)GitHub 3D Contribution Graph GeneratorReact Server Components documentationOther Projects Mentioned:Solid StartAstro

Jan 28, 2025 • 43min
195 | Why Remix's Break is Actually a Breakthrough
Brooks Lybrand discusses the transformation of React Router from a simple routing library to a powerful framework option for React applications. Learn about React Router 7's new framework mode, upcoming middleware support, and the team's innovative approach to React Server Components. Brooks explains how the Remix team is working to bring proven patterns and web standards to the broader React community while building a foundation for future web development that leverages native web APIs.Chapter Marks0:00 - Intro0:37 - Guest Introduction & SNL Jacket Discussion1:12 - The Remix "Nap" Announcement3:25 - Understanding React Router's Evolution7:51 - React Router Framework Mode10:21 - Middleware Support Plans15:42 - React Server Components Integration19:14 - Server-Side Capabilities & RSC Benefits24:17 - Team Size and Structure25:13 - Remix Brand & Future Direction30:19 - Future of Web APIs32:03 - Austin Remix Meetup Discussion34:54 - Community Engagement and Open Source36:19 - Picks and Plugs LinksPeople & Profiles:Brooks Lybrand's social profilesTwitterBlueSkyMichael ChanJames PerkinsRyan FlorenceEvan Bacon (mentioned for RSC mobile demo)Tools & Projects:React Router 7Remix RunRemix DiscordVite 6Cursor AI (mentioned in Amy's pick)The dev.to article about Cursor settings that Amy referencedElgato XLR Deck (Brad's pick)OXO Silicon Measuring Cup (Amy's pick)Events & Communities:Epic Web Conf (March 2024, where Brooks will be speaking)React Miami (April 2024, where Brooks will be speaking)Remix Austin MeetupTechnical Resources:React Server Components documentationRemix Project RoadmapVite's Environment API documentationBooks:The Three-Body Problem book series (Brooks' pick)Additional Resources:Netflix's Three-Body Problem show (mentioned in relation to Brooks' pick)

Jan 16, 2025 • 44min
194 | Building Trust: Identity Security & Social Growth
Join us for an insightful conversation with Ceora Ford about the intersection of security, development, and community building. We explore why managing identity security is more complex than simple authentication, examine the trade-offs of Next.js's App Router in enterprise applications, and uncover strategies for effective technical content creation. Ceora shares her experience transitioning from digital marketing to developer advocacy, offering practical advice for building a presence across platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and LinkedIn.SponsorConvex is the backend for founders. Convex is the backend application platform for product-obsessed founders.Chapter Marks00:00 - Intro01:14 - Identity Security Discussion05:25 - Evolution of React and Next.js08:33 - Documentation and Developer Experience15:43 - Sponsor: [Convex](https://convex.dev)16:20 - Authentication in the App Router21:31 - Content Creation and Marketing Strategy27:50 - Social Media Platform Strategy34:51 - Analytics and Tool Discussion41:08 - Picks and PlugsBradPick: His dog Roman (who they had to say goodbye to at age 17)Plug: Social media accountsBrad on TwitterBrad on BlueSkyBrad on YouTubeBekahPick: "The Game" podcast with Alex HormoziPlug: Open Sauce (opensauced.pizza) and her team's upcoming feature launchCeoraPick: "The Good Place" (TV show on Netflix)Plug: Social media accountsCeora on LinkedInCeora on TwitterCeora on BlueSkyCeora on TikTokLinksAuth0 by OktaNext.jsAuth0 documentation for Next.js integrationGatsbyAstroConvexJekyllGraphQLOpen SaucedMark Techson