
Soft Skills Engineering
It takes more than great code to be a great engineer. Soft Skills Engineering is a weekly advice podcast for software developers about the non-technical stuff that goes into being a great software developer.
Latest episodes

Jun 24, 2024 • 32min
Episode 414: Hot-headed PM and leaving without downgrading
The podcast discusses how to handle hot-headed project managers and extreme criticism in the workplace. It delves into strategies for dealing with aggressive behavior and navigating workplace dynamics. Additionally, it explores the benefits of using Datadog observability tools in SaaS projects and provides insights on assessing company culture during job interviews.

Jun 17, 2024 • 32min
Episode 413: Is my interview candidate cheating and my product owner is getting WRECKED by the client
Discussion on how to handle suspected cheating in technical interviews without assuming misconduct, addressing challenges with product owners overwhelmed by client demands, and strategies for managing client expectations effectively

Jun 10, 2024 • 33min
Episode 412: Work-life-team balance and getting code-sniped
The podcast discusses work-life balance differences within a tech team and negotiating boundaries with non-tech colleagues. It also explores challenges faced by a new backend developer regarding code quality and continuous task additions during sprints. The hosts emphasize clear communication, setting boundaries, and utilizing observability tools like Datadog for monitoring in SaaS projects.

Jun 3, 2024 • 35min
Episode 411: We have a secret org chart and I'm a big fish in a little pond
Explore the hidden org chart complexities in a startup formed by a corporate giant. From multiple management layers to power struggles and the chaos of unofficial titles, learn about the challenges of navigating a seemingly flat hierarchy. Uncover the humorous opportunities for job crafting and the clash of work cultures within a small team environment. Delve into the nuances of informal hierarchies, middle management roles, and the importance of team dynamics in mitigating critical person risk for operational stability.

May 27, 2024 • 34min
Episode 410: Guaranteed cost-of-living raises and my manager doesn't like me
Topics include stagnant wages, cost-of-living raises, dealing with unsupportive managers, and biases in front-end work. The hosts also touch on performance-based raises, negotiating salaries, and using Data Dog for code observability. Humorous anecdotes and practical insights make for an engaging discussion.

May 20, 2024 • 28min
Episode 409: Fancy title to IC and CRUD is crud
Transitioning from a senior role to an IC position at a new company, handling the excitement of game development passion vs. mundane software tasks, and exploring the challenges and rewards of indie game development

May 13, 2024 • 34min
Episode 408: Terrible retrospectives and "hard to work with"
The hosts discuss challenges in scrum methodologies faced by a new DevOps engineer in Europe, particularly their aversion to retrospectives. They explore the dynamics of blaming in retros, the struggle of moderating them without belief, and the importance of focusing on process improvements over finger-pointing. The episode also touches on the impact of toxic labels like 'hard to work with' in the workplace and the value of feedback and mentorship.

May 6, 2024 • 26min
Episode 407: I'm too territorial and should I quiet quit?
Exploring territorial behavior in a data science team, how to overcome possessiveness and share expertise. Discussion on feeling overwhelmed with unpaid overtime at work, being appreciated, and the dilemma of stepping back. Also, humorous advice on bold quitting and comparing it to Navy SEAL style departure.

Apr 29, 2024 • 28min
Episode 406: Acquired taste and limited mentorship
The podcast discusses navigating financial changes post-acquisition, with a focus on challenges of biweekly pay and limited career growth opportunities. Listeners seek advice on quitting under nickel-and-diming management and contemplating retirement in a cultural heritage software company. Humorous banter includes exploring subpar code excellence and armchair project manager antics.

4 snips
Apr 22, 2024 • 34min
Episode 405: Scaled agile pain and top-heavy team
Exploration of challenges with Scrum masters in a Scaled Agile environment, tech lead taking over scrum duties, struggles with communication and team collaboration, the impact of a new Scrum master, and the evolving role of Scrum masters in technical teams.