Chats with Kent C. Dodds

Latest Episodes:

Sparking Positive Energy in Tech and Beyond with Mark Techson Mar 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Kent and Mark Techson, from Google's Angular team, traverse the expansive terrain of web development, drawing parallels between coding and music. Mark, blending his industry wisdom with musical passion, provides an intriguing perspective on the structural similarities between the two. He also explores the vital role of an MC in enriching event experiences and fostering engagement. Throughout the conversation, Mark’s candidness about his personal journey as a developer and parent adds a relatable dimension, painting a rich, holistic picture of life in tech.

Watch this episode.

Meet Mark at Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Mark Techson

Twitter: @marktechson
GitHub: @marktechson
Website: marktechson.com

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Journey of Web Development with Jacob Paris Mar 06, 2024

Show notes

Developer and freelancer Jacob Paris delves into his personal evolution from game to web development, noting the core similarities like database interactions that tie different development fields together. He spotlights the efficacy of Remix in streamlining web development, particularly in UI and database interactivity, which he will explore further at Epic WebConf. Paris reflects on the critical nature of understanding the historical context of technology choices and advocates for well-justified selections in tech stacks. His upcoming conference presentation will dissect CRUD operations for effective application development, underlining the necessity of anticipating application demands for a more deliberate architectural approach. Paris looks forward to Epic WebConf both as a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering valuable community connections within the Remix sphere.

Watch this episode.

Meet Jacob at Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Jacob Paris

Twitter: @jacobmparis
GitHub: @JacobParis
Website: jacobparis.com

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Building Community and Innovation in Web Development with Kent C. Dodds Mar 04, 2024

Show notes

In this enlightening conversation, Kent C. Dodds shares his transition from a full-stack web developer to a renowned educator and community influencer within the web development sphere. He recounts his initial steps into public speaking, his experiences with rejection and eventual success in the conference circuit, and the pivotal role these platforms have played in his career.

Kent also delves into his work on creating and promoting quality web development education through platforms like testingjavascript.com, epicreact.dev, and his involvement with the Remix community. The discussion further touches on his anticipation for the upcoming Epic Web Comp, his thoughts on the evolution of web technologies like React server components, and his commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative community through in-person events.

Kent's story is not just about technical achievements but also about the power of community engagement and the impact of sharing knowledge and opportunities within the tech ecosystem.

Watch this episode.

Meet Kent at Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Host: Shaundai Person

Twitter: @shaundai
GitHub: @shaundai

Balancing Tech Careers and Personal Life with Michelle Bakels Mar 01, 2024

Show notes

In the podcast, Michelle Bakels, a seasoned software developer and the Program Director for Developer Health at G2i, joins Kent to explore the necessity of balancing a tech career with personal life to ensure overall well-being. Drawing on her experience with health challenges stemming from work stress, Michelle underscores the importance of the Developer Health Operating System initiative, which aims to promote healthier working habits in the tech world. They discuss the pitfalls of self-imposed stress, the need for effective resource management, and the role of communication in navigating the ever-evolving realm of software development, with a particular nod to the complexities of React. The session wraps up with a commitment to further discuss the crucial topic of developer health in future talks.

Watch this episode.

Meet Michelle at Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Michelle Bakels

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Harnessing the Power of AI in Web Development with Barry McGee Feb 28, 2024

Show notes

In a thought-provoking podcast with Kent, Barry McGee from Shopify shares insights on the integration of AI in web development and the evolving landscape of remote work. Having transitioned to remote working in 2016, Barry brings a wealth of experience from significant tech companies and discusses the future of web performance, AI's role in enhancing user experiences like the context-aware search in Shopify's Shop App, and the strategies for maintaining application performance at scale, including the importance of caching. As web development continues to evolve, Barry's perspectives offer a glimpse into the symbiotic relationship between AI advancements and efficient remote work practices.

Watch this episode.

Meet Barry at Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Barry McGee

Twitter: @barrymcgee
GitHub: @barrymcgee
Website: barrymcgee.co.uk

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

AI in Web Development with Scott Hanselman Feb 26, 2024

Show notes

In this illuminating episode, Scott Hanselman, with over 30 years in the tech industry, including a significant tenure at Microsoft, delves into the impact of AI on web development. He reflects on his technological journey from the early days of the internet and explores AI's potential in automating routine development tasks. Scott advises on the ethical use of AI and stresses the importance of understanding technology's fundamentals for mastery. He also touches on the personal side of tech work, advocating for empowerment, authenticity, and emotional health in the field. The podcast wraps with a call to highlight positive narratives that contribute to a supportive tech community.

Watch this episode.

Meet Scott at Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Scott Hanselman

Twitter: @shanselman
GitHub: @shanselman
Website: hanselman.com

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Developer Empowerment with Saron Yitbarek Feb 23, 2024

Show notes

In the podcast, Saron Yitbarek, the founder of Code Newbie, shares insights into empowering developers through enhanced learning resources, financial opportunities, and community building. With Code Newbie evolving into a comprehensive media company and her successful venture into designing The Story Graph, Saron highlights the importance of newsletters for personal engagement and the benefits of fostering a learning-centric community. Additionally, she underlines her commitment to financial empowerment for developers via the "Big Cash Money" community, paving the way for broader discussions at the Epic Web Dev conference.

Watch this episode.

Meet Saron at Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Saron Yitbarek

Twitter: @saronyitbarek
GitHub: @sarony
Website: bigcashmoney.com

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Journey into Web Development and Remix with Lina Mahrouch Feb 21, 2024

Show notes

Lina Mahrouch, a software engineer, recounts her transition from professional gaming to web development and her subsequent mastery of Remix for full-stack applications. The podcast highlights Remix's strengths in data handling, caching, and SEO, while also pointing out common pitfalls in its use. Kent and Lina stress the importance of networking in career advancement, particularly through conferences like the upcoming Epic WebConf. Discussions also touch on the exciting potential of AI in web development and the enduring value of personal interactions in the tech industry.

Watch this episode.

Meet at Lina Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Lina Mahrouch

Twitter: @lina_mahrouch
GitHub: @LinaMahrouch
Twitch: @elina_cs

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Demystifying DivOps with Ben Ilegbodu Feb 19, 2024

Show notes

Kent C. Dodds welcomes Ben Ilegbodu to discuss his work with front-end platforms and the coined term "DivOps," focusing on non-UI aspects like configurations and optimizations that enhance app performance and developer workflows. Ben shares insights into why JavaScript's ecosystem fosters a unique need for DivOps, emphasizing its role as a legitimate discipline crucial for app optimization and improved user experiences. The conversation also touches on the diverse challenges and solutions within DivOps, expectations for the Epic WebConf in Utah, and the value of community and knowledge sharing in advancing the field. Additionally, Ben's personal goal to visit every NBA arena adds a personal touch to the discussion, illustrating the blend of professional and personal interests that enrich the tech community.

Watch this episode.

Meet Ben at Epic Web Conf.

Guest: Ben Ilegbodu

Twitter: @benmvp
GitHub: @benmvp
Website: benmvp.com

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Lifelong Learning in Web Development with Mandy Hartman Feb 16, 2024

Show notes

Mandy Hartman, a front-end developer at Jenzabar, shares her insights on the importance of continuous learning in web development, drawing on her own transition from academia to tech. She discusses her hands-on learning experiences, including participation in the "#100DaysOfCode" challenge and creating personal projects for skill demonstration in job interviews. Hartman's readiness to utilize online communities for support, her application development inspired by her time in museums and archives all underscore her dedication to constant skill refinement and knowledge-sharing. Her story is a testament to the benefits of lifelong learning for both aspiring developers and those shifting careers.

Come to Epic Web Conf.

NOTE: Due to personal conflicts, Mandy will not be able to attend Epic Web Conf after all. Maybe next year!

Guest: Mandy Hartman

Twitter: @hartmandyyy
GitHub: @hartmandy
Website: mandywebdev.com

Host: Kent C. Dodds

Website: kentcdodds.com
Twitter: @kentcdodds
GitHub: @kentcdodds
YouTube: Kent C. Dodds
Epic Web: epicweb.dev

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us