
Develop Yourself
To change careers and land your first job as a Software Engineer, you need more than just great software development skills - you need to develop yourself. Welcome to the podcast that helps you develop your skills, your habits, your network and more, all in hopes of becoming a thriving Software Engineer.
Latest episodes

Nov 11, 2024 • 39min
#187 - Mastering JavaScript Mental Models with Genies, Spaceships, and Wormholes
Kylo Robinson, an accomplished JavaScript developer and creator of The Great Sync, shares his journey from nearly quitting coding to mastering JavaScript through innovative mental models. He discusses the challenges of understanding abstract JS concepts and the significance of visual learning. With engaging analogies, like octopuses for variables and oceans for code execution, he emphasizes the importance of imagination and practical experience in mastering JavaScript. Kylo also highlights resources that bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Nov 7, 2024 • 30min
#186 - Data Structures and Algorithms in Real Life
Discover how data structures and algorithms shape our social networks, with platforms like Twitter as prime examples. Learn to view these concepts as cooking recipes, making complex processes simpler. Explore the real-world impact of structures like prefix trees for auto-suggest features. Delve into stacks and trees, understanding their crucial roles in data management and web development. This enlightening discussion challenges the intimidation surrounding DSA, showcasing its relevance to both novice and seasoned developers.

Nov 4, 2024 • 27min
#185 - The Boring Tech Stack I Would Use to Get Hired as a Software Developer in 2025
Explore the essential tech stack to enhance your employability as a software developer by 2025. Focus on mastering core programming skills while being aware of current market trends. Frameworks like React.js and Next.js are highlighted as crucial for aspiring developers. Learn the significance of languages such as JavaScript, TypeScript, and Python, along with database options like MongoDB and SQL. Discover strategies for practical experience, including local business engagements and building a personal portfolio.

Oct 31, 2024 • 33min
#184 - From Invisible to Hireable: The Power of Building in Public for New Coders
Learning in public isn't about likes. It's not about becoming an influencer.Learning in public is a practical way to validate yourself as a developer, learn the art of writing and become discoverable in a sea of cookie-cutter bootcamp grads.We will go over why you want to learn in public, how to do it and a way to meet other developers without being weird. Grab my learning in public templates hereSend us a textShameless Plugs 🧑💻 Join Parsity - For career changers who want to pivot into software. ✉️ Got a question you want answered on the pod? Drop it here Zubin's LinkedIn (ex-lawyer, former Googler, Brian-look-a-like)

Oct 28, 2024 • 24min
#183 - Stand Out on LinkedIn: Tips from a 7-Foot CEO Who Did It Right
In this episode, I chat with Harley Ferguson, the seven-foot-tall South African CEO of Origen Software. We dig into strategies for going viral, crafting engaging posts, and how Harley’s unique perspective has helped him build an audience of over 60,000 followers.Whether you're looking to become LinkedIn famous or just stand out in the developer market - you'll walk away with actionable steps to begin learning in public the right way.Harley is an amazing human and an excellent writer. You can connect with him here:101 Tips for Becoming a Better DeveloperHarley's LinkedInSend us a textShameless Plugs 🧑💻 Join Parsity - For career changers who want to pivot into software. ✉️ Got a question you want answered on the pod? Drop it here Zubin's LinkedIn (ex-lawyer, former Googler, Brian-look-a-like)

Oct 24, 2024 • 12min
#182 - (Mini-Episode) Level Up Your JavaScript: Simple Tips for Cleaner Code
Discover essential tips to refine your JavaScript skills and boost your coding professionalism. Learn about the importance of using 'const' for variable declarations and how to enhance code readability with tools like Prettier. Emphasize consistency in coding style for effective team collaboration, drawing parallels to literature. Explore best practices that prevent common coding pitfalls and ensure your code is both clean and structured. Plus, find out how to maintain a strong professional presence on platforms like GitHub.

Oct 21, 2024 • 40min
#181 - Meta Tech Lead Secrets: Breaking into FAANG, Big Salaries, and Career Growth with Rahul
In this episode, I’m joined by Rahul Pandey, a former tech lead at Meta and co-founder of JoinTaro, a platform for ambitious software developers. Rahul shares his transparent insights on working in big tech, including the reality of big salaries in FAANG companies and what it’s really like behind the scenes.You can connect with Rahul on LinkedIn.BONUS ALERT 👇Don't miss out on this course I made for JoinTaro about breaking into tech as an outsider which is FREE for a limited time: https://www.jointaro.com/course/break-into-tech-and-become-a-software-engineer/Send us a textShameless Plugs 🧑💻 Join Parsity - For career changers who want to pivot into software. ✉️ Got a question you want answered on the pod? Drop it here Zubin's LinkedIn (ex-lawyer, former Googler, Brian-look-a-like)

Oct 17, 2024 • 16min
#180 - Tech Layoffs & AI Panic: The Truth About Tech Careers in 2024
"AI is coming for your tech job!""There's no hope for coders in 2024!""Learn to code?! Ha, that was so 2015."Do these click bait titles sound familiar?I've gone down the YouTube rabbit hole of doom and gloom videos about the tech job market and AI. The reality is much less interesting which is why you won't see much of it on platforms where extreme opinions get the most eye balls.Excuse me while I go on a rant about layoffs, AI and getting hired in 2024 with some facts to back me up. You can check out a real time look at the tech job market here: https://www.trueup.io/job-trendSend us a textShameless Plugs 🧑💻 Join Parsity - For career changers who want to pivot into software. ✉️ Got a question you want answered on the pod? Drop it here Zubin's LinkedIn (ex-lawyer, former Googler, Brian-look-a-like)

Oct 14, 2024 • 42min
#179 - Speak Up, Stand Out: How Public Speaking Can Unlock Your Developer Career
Geoffrey Huck, a software engineer turned coach, shares his journey from a shy developer to empowering tech leaders in public speaking. He emphasizes that mastering communication can significantly enhance career prospects. Geoffrey discusses practical strategies to overcome shyness and initiate conversations, illustrating how these skills are essential for leadership roles. His personal anecdotes highlight the transformative power of public speaking in a developer's career, providing listeners with valuable insights and encouragement.

Oct 10, 2024 • 21min
#178 - Lessons from the 3 Smartest Developers I’ve Ever Met
Explore the profound lessons gained from three brilliant developers who transformed the host's coding career. Discover the emotional challenges of receiving constructive feedback during code reviews and the importance of aligning tech strategies with business goals. Learn how collaboration and embracing discomfort can lead to personal growth in the tech field. The insights shared are essential for anyone looking to level up their coding skills and avoid mediocrity.