
Self-Directed Research
This is the Self Directed Research Podcast, where our hosts James and Amos share a little bit about the topics they’ve been obsessing about lately.
Visit sdr-podcast.com/ for more information about the podcast, check out all episodes and learn about who we are and how to support us!
Questions, comments, interested in sponsoring? Send an email to contact@sdr-podcast.com
Latest episodes

Jul 2, 2025 • 52min
HTML5 video
Delve into the quirky world of HTML5 video as the hosts discuss the intricacies of bitrate ladders and their hilarious recording challenges. Discover the technical hurdles faced in developing an ad-free streaming platform, coupled with insights on efficient image handling and alt text. Explore the evolution of modern image formats like WebP and AVIF, and learn about the advantages of new video codecs alongside browser compatibility woes. With a lighthearted tone, personal anecdotes and data quirks make complex topics relatable and entertaining.

Jun 25, 2025 • 42min
Typst is pretty neat
Dive into the world of Typst as the hosts enthusiastically discuss its advantages over LaTeX, which they humorously critique. Discover the evolution of typesetting languages, from LaTeX to the collaborative-friendly Markdown, and how modern tools like Typst are reshaping document creation. The conversation also highlights innovative uses of Typst in UI design and the challenges of typesetting with SVG. Join the laughter as they share anecdotes about their tech journey and the quirks of navigating new tools.

Jun 18, 2025 • 52min
DRM schemes
The top 10? Bottom 10? In any case, enjoy a breakdown of 10 digital rights management schemes. Also, admire Amos' restraint as a YouTuber that they waited until 2025 to make a numbered list.
Visit sdr-podcast.com/drm-schemes to see the show notes and transcript!
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10 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 37min
sans-io: meh
Dive into the intriguing world of 'sans-io' as James and Amos dissect its impact on Rust programming. They tackle challenges in async programming, sharing personal anecdotes and technical critiques. The debate on file formats, including Sans.io and the relevance of async I/O systems, highlights the quest for better protocol designs. Memory management complexities come under scrutiny, emphasizing stack versus heap allocation strategies. The conversation also explores the limitations of the Tokyo Rust LS, questioning its handling of TCP sockets and control events.

Jun 4, 2025 • 45min
automating macOS
Dive into the world of macOS automation, where enhancing content creation meets the power of Markdown. Discover the art of integrating code samples into videos while tackling image editing and background removal challenges. Explore the complexities of automating screenshots with JavaScript for Automation, and uncover the historical significance of AppleScript in streamlining workflows. Lastly, learn how to improve website accessibility for screen reader users, ensuring a more inclusive digital experience.

12 snips
May 28, 2025 • 27min
Proxying is just dumb routing
James and Amos dive into the fascinating world of routing and proxying, simplifying complex networking concepts. They tackle the roles of DNS and BGP in navigating internet intricacies. A unique take on building computing systems with salvaged technology sparks creativity. The importance of reverse proxies in web development shines through, enhancing performance and security. Optimizing message protocol design and data encoding for efficiency rounds out the conversation, along with a look at build acceleration to supercharge development timelines.

10 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 43min
The Embedded Buddy System
James shares why you might want to design embedded systems as a network of devices, instead of trying to cram everything into a single chip
Visit sdr-podcast.com/the-embedded-buddy-system to see the show notes and transcript!
**Sponsor:** Poststation, a tool from OneVariable that makes it easy to set up communication between your desktop, laptop, or an embedded Linux system, to as a many connected microcontrollers as you need.
If you're a company building a product around multiple devices, and would like to have all of the "plumbing", tooling, and device management handled out of the box, send us an email to contact@onevariable.com for early access.

Dec 4, 2024 • 48min
Merde is not Serde
In a rare direct follow-up episode, Amos shares an even differenter take on Serde, this time focusing on the kind of needs a server would have when handling data. Spoiler: Yes, merde means poop in French.
Visit sdr-podcast.com/episodes/merde-is-not-serde/ to see the show notes and transcript!
CodeCrafters is a service for learning programming skills by doing. Visit our referral link at CodeCrafters to start your free trial. If you decide to upgrade, you'll get a discount and a portion of the sale will support this podcast.

Nov 27, 2024 • 41min
A different serde
A bit about how serde works well, a bit about how serde doesn't work well, and a bit about a different, questionable way of doing things
Visit sdr-podcast.com/episodes/a-different-serde/ to see the show notes and transcript!
CodeCrafters is a service for learning programming skills by doing. Visit our referral link at CodeCrafters to start your free trial. If you decide to upgrade, you'll get a discount and a portion of the sale will support this podcast.

Nov 20, 2024 • 41min
My home automation journey
Embark on a fascinating journey through the world of home automation. Discover the evolution of Bluetooth and its challenges in connecting smart devices. Delve into the differences between mesh networking and point-to-point connections, focusing on security and privacy. Hear real-life anecdotes about integrating the Philips Hue system and the complexities of DIY projects. Experience the emotional benefits of automation while navigating the humorous pitfalls of technology compatibility. It's a blend of tech insights and personal reflections!