Podcast Awesome

Nerd Show and Tell: Meet Lea Verou Feb 04, 2025

It’s finally happening! In this episode of Podcast Awesome, we sit down with Lea Verou to talk about all things usability, web standards, and her journey into tech. From childhood tinkering with imaginary product ads to shaping the future of CSS and web development, Lea has done ... a lot!

You’ll hear about her work at MIT, her time on the W3C TAG, and what led her to join Font Awesome as Product Lead. Plus, we get into the finer points of her experience as a hardcore food blogger, and why Greek food just doesn’t do it for her anymore. Oh, and did we mention she may have been the first person to use an icon font on the web?

Tune in for an insightful, nerdy, and entertaining deep dive into Lea’s world.

Timestamp Summary

🎙️ 0:01 | Welcome Lea Verou: The One We Finally Tracked Down

🤗 2:11 | Font Awesome’s Biannual Snuggle: Cozy or Creepy?

💡 3:28 | Lea’s Journey into Tech: The Love of Building Useful Things

💻 5:04 | From Visual Basic to Web Development: The Magic of the Web

🌍 8:49 | Web Standards & Lea’s Role in W3C’s TAG

🖍️ 12:31 | CSS Wizardry: The Inline If Function and Design Tokens

🛠️ 13:53 | How Font Awesome and Lea Crossed Paths

🔍 17:28 | The Truth About Font Awesome’s Licensing Model

🚀 18:18 | What Lea’s Working on at Font Awesome (Hint: Usability FTW)

👥 20:11 | Nerds Who Like People: The Importance of Human-Centric Design

🍜 25:52 | Lea’s Love for Cooking, Food Blogging, and Spicy Delights

🇬🇷 37:19 | Greek Food? Meh. Let’s Talk Global Cuisine

🥩 40:11 | The Steak That Changed Lea’s Life

🔥 42:02 | Favorite Font Awesome Icons? Dumpster Fire & Poo Storm, Obviously

🌐 43:34 | Where to Find Lea Online (Spoiler: Not on MySpace)

Font Awesome: https://fontawesome.com/

The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

Font Awesome on the Socials

🌤️ Bluesky: @fontawesome.com

🐦 Twitter/X: @fontawesome

📸 Instagram: @font.awesome

💼 LinkedIn: /fontawesome

🖥️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more nerdery, tech insights, and fun!

Lea on the socials!

🐦 Twitter: https://x.com/LeaVerou

🌤️ Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lea.verou.me

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2024 Wrap-Up: Growth, Legends, and a Kitty Cat Saga Jan 21, 2025

It’s that time of year again! In this episode of Podcast Awesome, we’re reflecting on all the things that went down at Font Awesome in 2024. From expanding the Awesomeverse with Web Awesome and Eleventy to major product updates like the full release of Duotone Icons and shiny new branding, we cover it all.

You’ll hear about the Web Awesome Kickstarter campaign (success!), the arrival of industry legends Lea Verou and Zach Leatherman, and the behind-the-scenes Font Awesome updates that made 2024 one for the books. As they say. Oh, and don’t miss Jory’s epic tale of a tuxedo kitten named Toast that could easily inspire a heart warming stop motion holiday movie.

Tune in for a fun, nerdy recap of the year that was and a sneak peek at what’s in store for 2025.
Timestamp Summary
🎉 0:08 | Reflecting on 2024 and Font Awesome's Upcoming Plans
🐾 2:35 | A Christmas Miracle and a Chaotic Kitten Rescue
🌌 7:26 | Building the Awesomeverse: Font Awesome's Expansion and Success
🔧 10:28 | Web Awesome Simplifies Website Building with Reusable Components
🤝 13:12 | Exciting New Hires and Developments at Font Awesome
🎁 16:41 | Exciting Updates and Offers for Font Awesome Pro
✨ 18:51 | Font Awesome's Icon Expansion and Creative Uses
🎥 25:07 | Behind the Scenes of a New Font Awesome Video
🛠️ 27:57 | Customizing Font Awesome Kits for Optimal Website Performance
🌱 30:12 | Evolution ... It'll Save Your Life
Font Awesome: https://fontawesome.com/
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions
Aurora Holiday Dance
Font Awesome on the Socials
🌤️ Bluesky: @fontawesome.com
🐦 Twitter/X: @fontawesome
📸 Instagram: @font.awesome
💼 LinkedIn: / fontawesome
🖥️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more nerdery, tech insights, and fun!

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Myth, Meme, or Madness? The Truth About Ballmer’s Peak 🤔 Dec 10, 2024

🍺 What’s the deal with the Ballmer Peak? Myth, meme, or just good old-fashioned developer humor? In this episode of Podcast Awesome, we unpack the hilarity and history behind this coding legend, complete with personal stories, team insights, and a responsible PSA. Whether you’re debugging at 3 a.m. or just love a good laugh, this episode has something for everyone.
(And check out the episode on our YouTube for an even more fun! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb77NS_zFgQ)
🍻 0:00 - Introduction to Ballmer's Peak
💡 1:31 - What Is Ballmer's Peak?
🎉 3:13 - Ballmer's Peak at Font Awesome Snuggle
⚡ 5:15 - Steve Ballmer and Developer Energy
🚀 7:07 - Achieving Peak Developer Performance
🎶 8:32 - Real Developer Strategies for Peak Performance
🔬 9:06 - DIY Breathalyzer and Exploring Ballmer's Peak
🎬 10:23 - Conclusion and Credits
Font Awesome: https://fontawesome.com/
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions
Font Awesome on Social
🌤️ Bluesky: @fontawesome.com
🐦 Twitter/X: @fontawesome
📸 Instagram: @font.awesome
💼 LinkedIn: / fontawesome
🖥️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more nerdery, tech insights, and fun!

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The Logic Defying Way to Creating an Awesome Place to Work Nov 26, 2024

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, Matt chats with Font Awesome co-founder Dave Gandy about building a workplace that doesn’t just work — but works for everyone. Whether you’re hustling in a startup, navigating open-source communities, or just trying to figure out if your boss actually values your humanity, this one’s for you.
Dave dishes on the magic of finding the right co-founder (hint: they need to tell you when you're off your rocker), why open-source is about more than just writing code, and how empathy might just be the ultimate leadership hack. So, if you’re dreaming of cultivating a positive work culture — or just want to avoid soul-sucking jobs — this episode is for you.
Timestamp Summary
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 0:15 | Finding Balance and Empathy in Co-Founder Relationships
🏢 6:04 | Finding a Workplace That Values Employees as Human Beings
🌐 14:56 | The Value of Empathy and Community in Open Source
💡 19:29 | Empathy and Leadership: Building Teams That Care
🎙️ 24:27 | Behind the Scenes of Podcast Awesome Production
Key Takeaways:
The Co-Founder Code: Pick a partner who balances your strengths and isn’t afraid to call out your crazy ideas (yes, you have them).
Open Source Awesomeness: It’s not just about profit—it’s about passion, collaboration, and making something bigger than yourself.
Empathy is Everything: Forget power suits; your best leadership tool is actually understanding your team.
Work-Life Reality Check: When scouting a new job, look for a place that respects *you*, not just what you produce.
Leadership Done Right: The best managers focus on building teams that are better than them at what matters most.
Notable Quotes:
💡 “You need someone next to you that’s going to tell you when you’re crazy—or not—and that is of *such* extreme value.”
💖 “Empathy is your qualification for leadership.”
🚀 “Management is more about how you inspire and execute, not just delivering outcomes.”
🏆 “The best managers hire people who are better than them at the job that needs to be done.”
🌟 “You call it a lifestyle company like it’s a bad thing. Spoiler: every company is a lifestyle.”

Resources:
🎨 Font Awesome: FontAwesome.com
🐦 Twitter: @fontawesome
📸 Instagram: @font.awesome
🌌 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fontawesome.com
🎶 The Podcast Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin: https://ronniemartin.org/
🎵 Music interstitials by Zach Malm: https://muzach.bandcamp.com/
🎛️ Audio mastering by Chris Enns at Lemon Productions: https://www.lemonproductions.ca/

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Nerd Show and Tell: Meet Zach Leatherman Nov 19, 2024

Ready to geek out? In this episode of Podcast Awesome's Nerd Show and Tell, Matt sits down with none other than Zach Leatherman, the tech dynamo and creator behind Eleventy — the static site generator that’s got web devs buzzing. Zach’s tech-world experience is a wild ride of innovation, grit, and love for the open web. With a little help from our team here at Font Awesome, Zach’s pushing to make open-source sustainable and bring back the glory days of personal websites, free from algorithm overlords.

Zach gets real about the rollercoaster ride of building Eleventy and why owning your corner of the internet is more important than ever. Expect some hot takes on the tech industry, social media, and how platforms like Eleventy could just be the ticket to a new wave of web independence. Plus, you’ll get a peek into the collaborative brainpower with our founders Dave and Travis backing Zach’s mission. Hold onto your icons — this one’s packed!

Key Takeaways:

Eleventy: Zach’s creation was inspired by Jekyll, but it’s packed with unique features — no messy databases or plugins here! Simple, secure, and seriously impressive.
Sustainable Open Source: Zach’s career shines a light on the need for open-source projects to be sustainable, allowing devs to thrive without burning out.
Browser Dev Tools Love: Remember Firebug? Zach does. He spills on how these tools have shaped modern web development practices.
Indie Web Comeback: Forget the social media maze. Zach’s all about owning your digital real estate, championing a return to independent web publishing.
Font Awesome Collab: It’s a team effort! With the support of our founders and a shared mission, we’re backing Zach and Eleventy for a brighter, algorithm-free web future.

Timestamp Summary
🚀 0:00 | Zach Leatherman Discusses Eleventy and Open Source Challenges

💸 1:59 | Navigating the Challenges of Open Source Project Funding

⚖️ 13:04 | Balancing Open Source Passion with Sustainable Business Models

🌟 20:15 | The Joy of Building Websites and Creative Storytelling

🧻 25:26 | Debating the Proper Way to Hang Toilet Paper

🌌 26:27 | Eleventy's Future and Integration into the Awesome Universe

Links and Resources:

Credits:

Theme music by Ronnie Martin: https://ronniemartin.org/
Music interstitials by Zach Malm: https://muzach.bandcamp.com/
Audio mastering by Chris Enns at Lemon Productions: https://www.lemonproductions.ca/

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Why 'Lifestyle Company' Is a Badge of Honor at Font Awesome Nov 07, 2024

🎙 In this episode, Font Awesome founder Dave Gandy joins our host Matt Johnson for an honest, unfiltered convo about what it means to build a *lifestyle company* (and wear that badge proudly 💪). This isn’t your typical startup hustle. We’re diving into the “people-first” culture that makes Font Awesome a standout, from character-driven hiring to redefining what success means beyond growth on charts and graphs. 🏆💼
As Dave says, instead of climbing someone else’s ladder, Font Awesome is building its own way up, with purpose, transparency, and some solid work-life balance goals. Here’s why we believe that putting *people* over profit isn’t just good business — it’s just the way the work should be. 🌱💼
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Lifestyle Company, Proudly: We’re embracing the “lifestyle” label, focusing on growth, happiness, and well-being over sky-high returns. 📈💆‍♂️

Character > Skills: At Font Awesome, character-first hiring = trust, respect, and people who actually *want* to stick around. 🫶✨
VC Vibes Not Required: Font Awesome skips the “thousand-X-or-bust” mentality for a sustainable, fulfilling work culture. 👋💸

Life Outside Work Matters: The best parts of life are outside the office—so why not bring those values in? 🏠🌅

The Right Partner in Crime: Success means finding a partner who balances your quirks. 👯‍♂️ The perfect co-founder is a friend, critic, and cheerleader rolled into one.
Timestamp Summary
0:12 | 🌱 Building a Lifestyle Company Focused on Well-Being and Growth
6:52 | 💼 Creating a People-First Company Against Conventional Practices
12:04 | 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Human-Centric Product Design and Company Culture
15:59 | 🤝 The Importance of Balanced Partnerships in Business
20:38 | 🫶 Embracing a People-First Culture at Font Awesome
Links and Resources:

Podcast Awesome: https://www.podcastawesome.com/
Font Awesome Hiring Philosophy: https://blog.fontawesome.com/company-culture/
Twitter: @fontawesome

Credits:

Theme music by Ronnie Martin: https://ronniemartin.org/
Music interstitials by Zach Malm: https://muzach.bandcamp.com/
Audio mastering by Chris Enns at Lemon Productions: https://www.lemonproductions.ca/

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Character First: The Font Awesome Key to Hiring Success Oct 24, 2024

In this edition of Podcast Awesome, Matt sits down with Font Awesome founder, Dave Gandy, at the 2024 Snuggle in Bentonville, Arkansas. Between karaoke sessions and Hoobastank choruses (blame Ed), Matt and Dave discuss a topic on a lot of minds lately: How do you build a company where people actually want to stick around?

With a tech industry average of just 18 months at a job, Font Awesome breaks the mold — no one has left in over 10 years. Dave and Matt dive into Font Awesome’s hiring philosophy, the importance of building a people-first culture, and how giving employees autonomy and treating them like adults might just be the magic recipe for success.

Key Takeaways:

Loyalty Beyond the Paycheck: At Font Awesome, it’s about treating people as humans first — loyalty comes from loyalty. Simple, right?
Hire for Character: Skills are important, but character and culture fit are what truly makes a team thrive.
Autonomy Matters: Give people the freedom to make decisions, and watch creativity and innovation skyrocket.
It’s Not Just Business: A company’s culture is built on everything someone brings from outside of work, not just the hours they log in the office.

Timestamp Breakdown:

0:05 | 🎤 Welcome to the Snuggle: Karaoke, Game Nights, & Company Culture
2:30 | 🏢 The Importance of Building a People-First Culture in Tech
6:45 | 🧠 How Loyalty and Trust are Built When You Hire for Character
11:10 | 👨‍💻 Autonomy is Key: Why Giving Employees Freedom is Essential
15:55 | 💡 Solving Problems vs. Solving Interesting Problems: Finding the Balance
21:30 | 🚀 How Font Awesome Created a Company People Want to Stick With

Links and Resources:

Podcast Awesome: https://www.podcastawesome.com/
Font Awesome Hiring Philosophy: https://blog.fontawesome.com/company-culture/
Twitter: @fontawesome

Credits:

Theme music by Ronnie Martin: https://ronniemartin.org/
Audio mastering by Chris Enns at Lemon Productions: https://www.lemonproductions.ca/

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The Great Debate: Web Fonts vs. SVGs – Which Should You Use? It Depends Oct 01, 2024

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, Matt and Rob take you on a wild ride through the evolution of web icons — because who doesn’t love a good glow-up story? From the pixelated mess of Geocities and MySpace days (RIP low-res images) to the sleek world of custom web fonts and SVG's moment in the sun, they break down each tech's pros and cons so you don’t have to.
Ever wondered how icons went from blurry to brilliant? We've got questions and Rob’s got the answers! He explains how web fonts came in like a hero to save the day, improving performance and making your designs look sharp when retina screens appeared on the scene. But wait—SVGs are here too, offering even more flexibility, accessibility, and crispness for those big graphic-heavy projects. Plus, with Font Awesome Kits, you’ll learn how to easily mix and match your icons for peak performance without breaking a sweat.
So. What kind of icon is best for your project — Webfont or SVG. Rob dodges the dogmatism and simply says, "well, it depends."
Key Takeaways:

Evolution of Icon Technology: An overview of the shift from low-resolution images to web fonts and SVGs, highlighting their impact on web design.
Pros and Cons: Detailed comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of web fonts and SVGs, including aspects like performance, accessibility, and usability.
Font Awesome Kits: Explanation of how Font Awesome Kits help developers navigate between web fonts and SVGs, offering features to optimize icon usage.
Accessibility and Semantics: Discussion on the importance of accessibility and semantic considerations in choosing icon technology.
Practical Advice: Guidance on how to decide between web fonts and SVGs for specific projects, with practical examples and insights.
Timestamp Summary
0:09 | 🌐 The Evolution of Icon Tech on the Web
2:16 | 🖼️ Evolution of Web Icons from Images to Custom Fonts
7:33 | ⚡ Web Fonts Versus SVGs for Faster and Accessible Icons
12:13 | 🔍 Choosing Between SVG and Other Formats Depends on Your Project
13:01 | 🎬 Web Fonts Versus SVG: Pros and Cons for Icon Animation
15:40 | 🛠️ Making Web Fonts Accessible with Font Awesome Kits
16:57 | 🎨 Advantages and Challenges of Using SVGs for Web Icons
20:17 | 🚀 Optimizing Font Awesome: Web Fonts vs SVG
26:40 | 🔧 Simplifying Font Awesome Upgrades with Kits
28:27 | ✅ Making the Right Choice: SVG Versus Web Font
Podcast Awesome: https://www.podcastawesome.com/
Font Awesome Pro: Level up with Font Awesome Pro!
Webfont or SVG: Well, it Depends: https://blog.fontawesome.com/svg-or-webfont/
https://fontawesome.com/plans
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Podcast Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin: https://ronniemartin.org/
Audio mastering by Chris Enns at Lemon Productions: https://www.lemonproductions.ca/

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The Story Behind the Poo-Storm Icon Sep 17, 2024

💩⚡️ Hold onto your butts, folks, because this episode of Behind the Icon on Podcast Awesome is about to get ... messy! We’re diving headfirst into the iconic history of one of Font Awesome’s quirkiest creations — the Poo-Storm icon. But if not for the creation of a stinker of a particular emoji, the poo-storm icon may never have come to fruition.
It all starts with the legendary rise of the poo emoji, a cultural masterpiece that has made its way into countless texts, memes, and conversations (whether you admit it or not). 💬
This episode is packed with everything you never knew you needed to know about emoji and icons, including a hilarious behind-the-scenes look at how Jory Raphael, Font Awesome’s own Icon Making Boss, got an icon mash-up idea. From the humble beginnings of the cloud icon to its thunderous twist into a storm of poo, Jory breaks it all down with plenty of laughs and middle-school humor. ✨💩
And yes, "icon creation", "poo emoji origin", and "Font Awesome magic" are the real stars here. Whether you're a design nerd or just here to catch a case of the goofballs, this episode is sure to entertain. 💥
Key Takeaways:
💩 The history of the poo emoji dates back to the late '90s in Japan 🇯🇵, thanks to Shigetaka Kurita, who basically invented emoji communication as we know it.
⚡️ And when boredom and eye-crossing monotony set in on a particularly long day of icon design, Jory Raphael mashed up the poo emoji into something even more fun — thus the Poo-Storm icon was born. 💡 Humor + design is the name of the game at Font Awesome!
🌍 Thanks to the Unicode Consortium, the poo emoji officially went global in 2010, becoming the symbol for all things cheeky and lighthearted in digital communication.
🎨 Font Awesome’s philosophy? Playful design with a side of absurdity — the Poo Storm icon embodies this perfectly.
🚽 Pro tip: The Poo Storm icon isn’t just for giggles — it’s been spotted in the wild at a plumbing company, proving even the weirdest icons have a purpose!
Timestamp:
0:09 - The Evolution and Cultural Impact of the Poop Emoji 💩
4:58 - The Creation of the Poo Storm Icon ⚡️
8:04 - The Perfect Use of a Fun Icon 🚽
10:20 - Clever Use of Poo Storm Icon on a Home Inspections Website 🏠
12:26 - Awesome Theme Song and Video Editing Credits 🎶
Notes:
💡 Shigetaka Kurita: https://emojipedia.org/shigetaka-kurita/
🔤 Unicode Consortium: https://unicode.org
💩 The Poo-storm Icon: https://fontawesome.com/icons/poo-storm?f=classic&s=solid
🏠 ROI Home Inspections: https://roihomeinspections.com/
🎨 Font Awesome: https://fontawesome.com
🐦 Twitter: @fontawesome: https://twitter.com/fontawesome
📸 Instagram: @font.awesome: https://www.instagram.com/font.awesome
💬 Threads: @font.awesome https://www.threads.net/@font.awesome
💼 LinkedIn: Font Awesome: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fontawesome
🎶 The Podcast Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin: https://ronniemartin.org/

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Behind the Icon: How the Double Horns Became a Metalhead’s Salute Sep 03, 2024

In this headbanging episode of Podcast Awesome, we explore the story behind the devil horns gesture—an iconic symbol in the world of heavy metal. 🤘 From its origins in ancient superstitions to its popularization by metal legend Ronnie James Dio, this gesture has a history as rich as the riffs that accompany it. We also chat with Font Awesome’s own Jory Raphael, the creative mind behind the hand horns icon, to get an inside look at how this powerful symbol became part of the Font Awesome library. Whether you're a metalhead or just love a good story, this episode is a must-listen! 🎸
🕒 Timestamps:
⏳ 00:09 - Heavy Metal and Visual Cues
🤘 00:35 - The Double Horns Hand Gesture
🧙‍♂️ 02:08 - Origin of the Devil Horns Gesture
🎤 02:49 - Ronnie James Dio and the Devil Horns
🧿 05:11 - The Evil Eye and Cultural Connections
🤟 06:56 - The Devil Horns as a Metalhead Salute
🎨 07:41 - The Creation of the Hand Horns Icon
🚀 09:56 - Call to Action for Font Awesome Community
🎧 12:36 - Credits and Closing Remarks

#DevilHorns #HeavyMetal #PodcastAwesome #IconDesign #MetalCulture #RonnieJamesDio

Podcast Awesome: https://www.podcastawesome.com/
Hand Horns Icon: https://fontawesome.com/icons/hand-horns
Font Awesome Pro: Ready to rock? Level up with Font Awesome Pro! https://fontawesome.com/plans
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Podcast Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin: https://ronniemartin.org/
Audio mastering by Chris Enns at Lemon Productions: https://www.lemonproductions.ca/

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The Story Behind the Dumpster Fire Icon: From Meme to Iconic Design Aug 20, 2024

Ever wonder how a chaotic internet meme became an iconic design? Join us in this episode as we dive into the fascinating journey of the Dumpster Fire icon—from its fiery beginnings as a viral GIF to its status as a symbol of modern times. 🔥
(And if you want ever more entertainment from this episode, make sure to check out the YouTube version!)
We’ll explore the history behind the phrase “dumpster fire,” its cultural impact, and how it inspired the creation of one of Font Awesome’s most beloved icons. Plus, hear behind-the-scenes stories from our design team and discover why this icon is as relevant as ever!

🕒 Timestamps:
⏳ 00:00 Intro and Overview of the Dumpster Fire
👋 01:15 Origins of the Phrase "Dumpster Fire"
📈 03:22 The Rise of the Dumpster Fire Meme
🖥️ 05:45 Tracing the Source of the Original Dumpster Fire GIF
🎨 07:35 Designing the Dumpster Fire Icon for Font Awesome
🔥 09:10 Why the Dumpster Fire Icon Belongs in the Political Category
💡 11:50 Fun Facts and Design Insights from the Font Awesome Team
🙌 14:20 How You Can Use the Dumpster Fire Icon in Your Projects
🎉 16:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#DumpsterFire #FontAwesome #IconDesign #MemeCulture #InternetHistory

Podcast Awesome: https://www.podcastawesome.com/
YouTube video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/8X40p-kfxYo
Dumpster Fire Icon: https://fontawesome.com/icons/dumpster-fire
Font Awesome Pro: Want to put the Icon Wizard to use? Grab a Font Awesome Pro subscription! https://fontawesome.com/plans
The Origin of the Internet's Most Famous Dumpster Fire: https://www.entrepreneur.com/science-technology/the-origin-of-the-internets-most-famous-dumpster-fire/284041
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin https://ronniemartin.org/
Audio mastering by Chris Enns at Lemon Productions https://www.lemonproductions.ca/

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The Story Behind the Mullet Icon: Celebrating an Enduring Cultural Symbol Aug 13, 2024

The Story Behind the Mullet Icon: Celebrating an Enduring Cultural Symbol
🎬 Join us as we delve into the resilient history of the mullet, from its uncertain origins to its pop culture prominence in the '80s and '90s. 🎸 Learn about the creation of Font Awesome's 'User Mullet' icon and enjoy entertaining stories from team members who sported mullets. ✂️ Discover the evolution of this iconic hairstyle and how it has shaped popular culture over the decades.
🕒 Timestamps:
⏳ 00:00 The Enduring Legacy of the Mullet
👋 00:55 Introduction to the Series
📜 01:24 Historical Origins of the Mullet
🎤 02:19 Cultural Impact and Popularity
📚 03:17 Etymology and Alternative Names
🔄 05:13 The Mullet's Modern Resurgence
🖌️ 05:35 Creating the Mullet Icon
🎨 06:10 Design Insights from Jory Raphael
🎉 08:47 Personal Mullet Stories
🙌 15:57 Conclusion and Community Engagement
#MulletMadness #FontAwesome #IconicStyles #PopCulture #MulletIcon
Podcast Awesome: https://www.podcastawesome.com/
User-hair-mullet icon: https://fontawesome.com/search?q=user%20hair%20mullet&o=r
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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The Story Behind the Sharp Icons: How a Whiteboard Idea Accidentally Turned into a Full Icon Set Jul 30, 2024

In this deep dive into the creation of Font Awesome's Sharp Icon Set, designers Jory and Noah share the behind-the-scenes story of transforming a casual idea into a reality.

Jory recounts the unplanned inception of the Sharp Icon Set, initially just a bullet point on a whiteboard that evolved into a full-fledged project due to a promotional video. The discussion sheds light on the challenges they faced, such as maintaining consistency with the existing icon grid sizes and artboard constraints, while exploring the potential for new design directions in the future. Noah elaborates on his journey from Figma advocate to a pivotal member of the Font Awesome team, charged with defining the rules and styling for a sharp rendition of their iconic set.
Timestamp Summary
| 0:01:04 | The idea of Sharp icons accidentally made it into a video.
| 0:02:01 | Sharp icons originated during a brainstorming session.
| 0:03:31 | The concept of sharp icons was included in the version six video.
| 0:04:09 | We'd committed ourselves to Sharp icons, and Noah was hired to help.
| 0:06:26 | Noah played a significant role in designing the Sharp icons.
| 0:07:47 | Noah initially declined to help, but eventually joined the team.
| 0:09:44 | Jory worked on the Sharp icons while quarantined with COVID.
| 0:10:53 | Matt and Noah collaborated on copy and graphics for the Sharp icons.
| 0:11:47 | The main challenge was adapting the icons to a different grid size.
| 0:12:20 | The challenges of maintaining consistency between icon families.
| 0:12:50 | Making design choices to ensure compatibility with existing designs.
| 0:13:33 | The challenges of showcasing different icon families on the website.
| 0:14:18 | Updating icon search to include references to Sharp & Classic styles.
| 0:15:03 | Jory and Matt discuss the user-friendly design of the icon search tool.
| 0:15:26 | The complexity of managing a large number of icons and styles.
| 0:16:22 | How Noah got involved with the Sharp project and his initial work.
| 0:18:22 | Noah and Jory's collaboration on a Figma event.
| 0:19:22 | Noah explains how he joined the Sharp project.
| 0:20:36 | Noah discusses the challenges of creating Sharp icons.
| 0:21:24 | The visual density between rounded and sharp corners in icons.
| 0:22:39 | Establishing constraints for the Sharp icon set.
| 0:25:11 | Using Sharp icon sets and their suitability for different types of UI.
| 0:26:37 | Sharp icons work well with stark and geometric typefaces.
| 0:27:51 | Sharp icons may be suitable for fintech and professional themes.
| 0:28:16 | The difference between icon families and styles in Font Awesome.
| 0:30:38 | Choosing the right icon weight based on the legibility required.
| 0:32:23 | New icons based on a mathematical shape called the super ellipse.
| 0:32:51 | Good design should go unnoticed and guide the user intuitively.
Show Notes

Font Awesome: Font Awesome Website
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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The Latest on Web Awesome's Alpha Release Jul 16, 2024

Dive into the wild world of web development with the Web Awesome team! Listen as Matt, Lindsay, and the (podcast) elusive Corey dish about their successful Kickstarter, the alpha launch of Web Awesome, and the exciting future of web components. You'll get the inside scoop on their perfectionist struggles, theming API adventures, and how they're revolutionizing the way teams collaborate. Plus, bonus cat cameos!
Timestamp Summary
| 0:10 | Web Awesome Alpha Launch and Team Reflections
| 3:22 | Redesigning Theming API for Web Awesome's Alpha Release
| 9:22 | Challenges in Developing Complex UI Components
| 10:49 | Building Web Awesome: From Open Source to Paid Product
| 15:38 | Web Awesome Pro Features and Launch Timeline
| 19:04 | Revolutionizing Team Collaboration with Functional Design Systems
| 23:04 | Exciting Updates on Alpha Release and Lifetime Discounts

"I think I can speak for the whole team that we're all a bit of perfectionists, so I don't think we were ever ready to release an alpha."

Lindsay - (0:02:54)

"The theming was a big thing that I think we wanted to have pretty much a bow on when we released the alpha."

Lindsay - (0:03:22)

"Shout out to Lindsey for her amazing work on the theming API, which is completely redesigned a lot, lot easier."

Cory - (0:03:59)

"Shout out to Connor, who's not on this chat today, but he did some amazing work to convert to all of the form controls to use a new API that never existed when these form controls were originally created."

Cory - (0:05:59)

"We've had quite a few issues reported so far that we're looking into a lot of discussion started."

Lindsay - (0:02:27)

"Obviously, we couldn't have done this without you."

Lindsay - (0:23:23)

"I kind of have a component addiction. I really like doing this stuff. So my hobby is also my career, and so that it's cool that that got to converge in such a way that I can work full time on something I actually really enjoy working on."

Cory - (0:13:46)

----------------------
Show Notes

Font Awesome: Font Awesome Website
Web Awesome: Kickstarter Website
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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Podcasting 101: How Podcast Awesome Came to Life Jul 02, 2024

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, host Matt Johnson takes listeners behind the scenes of starting and producing Podcast Awesome. Despite being a newbie to podcasting, Matt shares his journey, from finding the initial idea buried in a Basecamp thread to releasing 20 episodes. He discusses capturing the podcast's vibe, and choosing the right software and equipment. Matt also shares insights from podcasting veteran Matt Carter and highlights the challenges and triumphs of what it takes to capture an authentic feel. And if gear and software is your thing, there's some conversation about that, too.
Feeling intimidated by starting your own podcast? Don't know what you're doing? You're in good company, we're figuring it out, too, as we "build the plane in the air." !
Timestamp Summary
| 0:00:08 | Introduction to the podcast and its purpose
| 0:01:04 | The decision to start recording episodes without much feedback
| 0:02:04 | Importance of capturing the podcast's vibe and subject matter
| 0:03:33 | Emphasis on Font Awesome's nerdery and company culture
| 0:05:14 | Determining the purpose and voice of the podcast
| 0:05:47 | Meeting with creative team and understanding brand guidelines
| 0:06:25 | Advice from podcasting buddy Matt Carter
| 0:08:06 | Choosing the right software for recording and editing
| 0:09:58 | Workflow for editing using GarageBand, Audio Hijack, and Descript
| 0:11:50 | Importance of quality gear for audio capture
| 0:12:50 | Tips for getting good audio and avoiding common mistakes
| 0:13:24 | Creating a checklist for podcasting setup
| 0:13:49 | Importance of capturing good audio at the beginning
| 0:14:19 | Editing tips: finding the right balance, getting feedback
| 0:15:37 | Choosing theme music: options and licensing agreements
| 0:16:42 | Using interstitials to create a relaxed atmosphere
| 0:18:37 | Nerd show and tell: short episodes featuring team members
| 0:19:08 | Constantly improving editing, hosting, and content marketing
| 0:19:32 | Getting over the discomfort of hearing one's own voice
| 0:19:57 | Rolling the credits: acknowledgments and production details
Quotes
Matt-(0:02:49)

"If you've spent any time with developers and designers, then you know they're really into the stuff that they're into, and it tends to be pretty dorky."

Matt-(0:04:43)"What's the purpose of your podcast? Maybe it's to share company news, to educate your customers, or to entertain."

Matt-(0:06:25)"The whole idea of making sure your conversation partner feels relaxed, and so the conversation feels natural."

Matt-(0:08:06)"The good news is that there's a ton of tools out there, and some of them are even free."

Matt-(0:09:11)"I started with GarageBand because I had a basic understanding of it from years past recording music demos with friends."

Matt-(0:11:50)"I don't know a single soul who likes to hear the sound of their own voice, and I'm definitely no different, but it's just something you have to get over."

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Nerd Show and Tell: Meet Konnor Rogers Jun 18, 2024

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Podcast Awesome we have an inspiring chat with Konnor Rogers, a developer at Web Awesome with a fascinating career trajectory. Starting his professional life as a paramedic and self-teaching his way into web development, Connor's journey epitomizes the relentless pursuit of a career in technology.

Konnor shares insights into his transition from paramedic to coder, highlighting the challenges of being self-taught and the breakthrough opportunities that led to his role alongside Corey at Web Awesome. He discusses current projects such as component development, the intricacies of form association, and the excitement of tackling the much-anticipated Kickstarter stretch goals like date pickers and rich text editors. Listeners can expect to hear a developer-centric conversation enriched with the technical specifics of Web Awesome's ongoing efforts to deliver awesome components to customers.

Timestamp | Summary
2:58 | From Paramedic to Web Developer: A Journey of Learning
4:05 | Balancing Education, Work, and Family Life
4:38 | Discovering and Contributing to Shoelace Components
5:04 | From Startup to Microsoft and Beyond
6:45 | Unconventional Paths to Tech Careers and Self-Taught Success
9:40 | Improving Form Controls in Web Development
12:58 | Refining Radio Button Accessibility and Behavior
14:09 | Challenges of Building an Accessible Date Picker Component
17:02 | Embracing Iterative Progress in Product Development
17:03 | Challenges in Building Advanced Web Components
20:00 | Early Mornings and Unusual Paramedic Tales
23:15 | Discussing Favorite Fonts, Icons, and Web Components
25:11 | Competitive Gaming and Balancing Family Life
26:42 | Recognizing Personal Limits with Hobby Enthusiasm

Resources:

The Odin Project: An open-source project that provides a free education in web development. The Odin Project
Syntax FM podcast: A popular tech podcast discussing web development topics that Connor mentioned during the conversation. Syntax FM
Font Awesome: Font Awesome Website
Web Awesome: Kickstarter Website
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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Nerd Show and Tell: Meet Lindsay Miller Jun 04, 2024

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, we chat with the Lindsay Miller, the first brave soul from the Web Awesome team to take the hot seat on the Nerd Show and Tell.

Beginning with a look into the inception of Lindsay's career and her interaction with Font Awesome before joining the Web Awesome team, we discuss the significance of a design system — a topic often shrouded in industry jargon yet fundamental to cohesive digital experiences. Lindsay also recounts being part of the recent Web Awesome Kickstarter campaign, which hit the 700,000 milestone.
Timestamp | Summary
0:00 | Chatting Design, Tech, and Font Awesome with Lindsay Miller
3:14 | From Solo Designer to Font Awesome Enthusiast
4:13 | Embracing Company Culture and Innovative Products
6:53 | From Childhood CSS Fascination to UX/UI Professional
10:32 | Landing the Dream Job (While Experiencing Imposter Syndrome)
14:56 | Addressing Inconsistencies in Development Practices
15:54 | Design Systems: Building Blocks for Developer Efficiency
19:47 | Developing and Perfecting Thematic Web Design Systems
23:47 | Kickstarter Success Brings Exciting Yet Daunting Challenges
24:36 | The Complexities of Building an Accessible Date Picker
27:59 | Icon Design Delights and the Font Awesome Possum
32:37 | Homeownership Inspires Mario-Inspired Wall Art
34:59 | Nostalgic Reflections on Star Wars and Creative Inspirations

Resources:

Font Awesome: Font Awesome Website
Web Awesome: Kickstarter Website
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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Introducing the Icon Wizard: Where F.A.R.T.S. Become Arts May 21, 2024

Designing custom icons is a gas-tly important part of modern design. It can make or break a brand, and sometimes you just need to let one rip and add a bit of spice to a website or app. However, creating custom icons can be a real stinker – a time-consuming and tedious task that can leave you feeling deflated. But don't worry, the Font Awesome team has a new feature that's a real breath of fresh air: The Icon Wizard — otherwise known by the internal code name, F.A.R.T.S (Font Awesome Reusable Tidbits and Shapes.) The Icon Wizard is a new-ish Font Awesome feature that allows Pro users to add icon modifiers, which allows for nearly limitless icon options!
Join us as we yuck it up with Jory Raphael, Mike Wilkerson, and Ed Emanuel from the Font Awesome team as we channel our inner middle schooler humor (and talk about the making of very serious software, of course!)
The project was conceived during the team's Snacktivities, which are small creative projects undertaken during their gatherings. While the initial concept did not focus on customizing icons, it evolved into the idea of applying modifiers to icons to create unique variations. The team's enthusiasm and dedication to the project led to its development during their collaborative sessions.

The Icon Wizard project presented challenges, such as user interface design and technical issues related to SVG fill rules. Despite these obstacles, the team worked together to overcome them and create a functional and user-friendly feature. This feature allowed users to select and apply modifiers to icons, providing them with the flexibility to customize icons according to their preferences.

Aside from the obviously humorous nature of this conversation, the tea, explores the practicality of the feature, highlighting the ability to add useful modifiers like a slash or a circle-plus to any icon in different styles. The team's playful banter and creative thinking during the development process added a fun and lighthearted element to the project, showcasing their innovative and humorous approach to icon design and customization.

---------------------
Time Stamps
[00:00:43] Icon Wizard project and F.A.R.T.S.

[00:04:34] Customizable Icons.

[00:09:38] Challenges with SVG fill rules.

[00:11:16] SVG path winding rules.

[00:14:43] Modifier challenges and favorites.

[00:19:25] Icon Wizard and modifiers.

[00:22:26] Burrito modifiers and bacon.
------------------
Show Notes
https://fontawesome.com/icons
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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Icons Made Easy: Rob Explains Font Awesome Pro May 07, 2024

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, Matt talks with Font Awesome's principal engineer, Rob Madole, about Font Awesome Pro.

At Font Awesome, we're always saying that while icons aren't going to change the world, we want to make it seamless to use. It's all about the versatility of Font Awesome Kits, their role in offering project-specific solutions, and the balance they achieve between feature richness and user friendliness.

In the conversation, the duo explains that Font Awesome Kits are sort of like a "bag of holding" or Hermione's magic handbag from Harry Potter. They emphasize the importance of having multiple Kits for agency work or varied internal projects. These Kits allow for segregated management and efficient resource distribution. Another thing to notice is the difference between Font Awesome Pro and free. Pro users enjoy a wealth of icons and advanced features that significantly elevate their creative capabilities.

Key Takeaways:

Font Awesome Kits are pivotal for customizing icon sets, ensuring projects use only the necessary icons and minimizing site loading times.
Pro users have access to a vast library of over 13,000 icons and advanced styles including solid, light, thin, duotone, and sharp.
Kits offer the ability to add custom icons or modify existing ones using the platform’s tools, effectively catering to unique design needs.
A Pro subscription not only unlocks premium icons but also includes a perpetual license, providing continued use of downloaded versions even after subscription cancellation.
Font Awesome emphasizes real human support for technical issues, a service highly valued in the often impersonal tech realm.

Resources:

Font Awesome: Font Awesome Website
Twitter: @fontawesome
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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Working Genius in Teams with Dave and Travis Apr 23, 2024

Episode Summary:

In this episode we chat with Font Awesome founders, Travis Chase and Dave Gandy. We delve into the intricacies of team dynamics and working relationships within the Font Awesome team. Using Patrick Lencioni's 6 Types of Working Genius framework, the episode dissects the leadership styles, strengths, weaknesses, and the collaborative fabric that help make Font Awesome successful.

Dave and Travis talk about how they navigate through frustrations in the workplace and strategies they've learned to capitalize on each other's strengths. Various aspects of the framework are highlighted, illustrating real-life examples where certain geniuses shine within the team's projects.

Key Takeaways:

Long-standing relationships between team members can lead to a deep understanding of each other's working styles and a healthier team environment.
The Working Genius framework can be particularly useful in identifying and playing to the strengths of team members in various project phases.
The 'Wonder' and 'Invention' geniuses play a pivotal role in the creative process, while 'Discernment' ensures ideas are viable.
Understanding and accommodating for 'Working Frustrations' is crucial in team settings to avoid conflict and help productivity.
Diversity in team geniuses is important not only to cover all areas of project development but also to foster unique perspectives to find solutions.

Notable Quotes:

"One of the creators of WuFU was one of our mentors in YC, was in that interview. And I just remember there was a point in which they started not only talking about business, but design in business, and how design business and how a company grows, how important it is. And it was just like two wonder bombs going off." - Travis
"The differences between people are how in our own deficiencies, that's how they get covered over. We work with other people that have those as geniuses instead of frustrations, and that's how we all together work better together." - Dave
"There's an infinite amount you don't know, and that's not the daily assumption and how you act, then the world is a very weird place around what we don't know." - Travis
"We are amazingly good at fooling ourselves, especially around our own capabilities, our own importance, and our own intelligence." - Dave

Show Notes:

Timestamp
0:00:08 | Introduction to the podcast and discussion of working dynamics
0:01:29 | Reflecting on working with Dave during the YC interview
0:04:31 | Travis's working frustrations with Dave's wonder
0:08:25 | Dave's working frustration with "E" (Enablement)
0:09:23 | Importance of having all 6 working geniuses on a leadership team
0:10:30 | Travis emphasizes the importance of not avoiding frustrations.
0:11:35 | Dave asks about discernment and its importance.
0:11:44 | Travis explains the working competencies of the team members.
0:12:30 | Dave discusses Lindsay's unique perspective as a designer.
0:13:32 | Travis and Dave discuss the critical role of discernment in design.
0:14:32 | Travis and Dave talk about Brian's genius in scriptwriting.
0:16:22 | Travis emphasizes the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives.
0:18:02 | Dave highlights the benefits of teamwork and listening to each other.

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What the Eff is the "FACU"? Apr 16, 2024

Maybe you've heard the news? The team at Font Awesome has recently rebranded Shoelace as "Web Awesome!" To celebrate the occasion, we launched a Kickstarter. And we couldn't kick off a rebrand without a new video.
Check it out!

If you've been around these parts for very long, you know Font Awesome has a history of creating zany content, such as the Font Awesome 5 Kickstarter video from 2017. And for the Web Awesome video, we collaborated with the creative studio Knox Avenue once again.

The Font Awesome promo videos have been a real source of pride for our team. They're not only a great marketing tool but the videos give us a chance to showcase the personality of the brand.

As always, the actors involved in creating these videos were great to work with. We were fortunate to get several of the characters you know and love — Rob, Milton and Albert — along with a few fresh faces too!
All of the actors and the whole Knox Avenue team were great to work with as always and the actors and crew members went above and beyond to helped bring the vision of the scripts to life.
Check out the video version of this podcast on the Kickstarter page!

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Free Code, Future Sustainability Apr 02, 2024

In this episode we chat with Font Awesome founder Dave Gandy about the journey of finding a sustainable business model while staying true to the open source model. We discuss the origin of Font Awesome, the power of open source software, and the concept of "actualized open source." Dave shares insights into the success of Font Awesome and their approach to monetizing the project while continuing to provide value to the open source community. They also discuss the launch of their new project, Web Awesome, and their Kickstarter campaign. Tune in to learn more about the intersection of open source and business.
Key Takeaways:

Font Awesome started as a solution to personal challenges with icons in web development and quickly turned into a global standard.
The importance of Retina displays in driving the success of vector-based iconography, especially for Font Awesome.
Balancing a profitable business model with the ethos of open source has resulted in continued improvement and distribution of free software.
Actualized open source is not just about sustaining a project but enabling it to become everything it can be.
Font Awesome maintains a commitment to not selling user data and providing a transparent business model based on value exchange.

Notable Quotes:

"Never let your morals get in the way of doing the right thing."
"Can we build a company full of people that can actually trust each other?"
"Can the company and the open-source project be actualized? Can they be self-actualized?"
"Software has this crazy thing about it that's different from the real world. The real world there is a natural scarcity... But with software, whatever we can provide in software, we can copy and distribute for almost free."
"What if we could be a place where people could become more of who they were made to be, right, of what they know is good about them?"

Timestamp
0:01:23 | The origin of Font Awesome as a solution to icon frustrations
0:03:00 | Explanation of Retina displays and the significance for graphics
0:04:04 | Font Awesome's advantage of using vector graphics for scalable icons
0:06:00 | Decision to make Font Awesome an open source project
0:08:32 | Font Awesome's rapid growth and the importance of GitHub for distribution
0:09:19 | Realization of Font Awesome's potential and decision to seek funding
0:10:23 | Building Font Awesome as a company instead of relying on external funding
0:11:18 | Dave's preference to avoid fundraising and maintain control over the project
0:11:58 | Open source software should not be begging for money
0:13:15 | The challenge is to build a product that people will pay for
0:14:57 | Font Awesome found a way to make payroll & sustain open source
0:15:22 | Being a pro subscriber is similar to donating to open source
0:17:10 | Transparency and trust are important in the business model
0:20:15 | The goal is to achieve self-actualization in open source
0:23:23 | Company's mission is to fulfill employees in life and workplace
0:28:09 | Launching the web awesome Kickstarter for Shoelace (web awesome)
0:30:10 | The goal is to grow open source exponentially and provide more value
0:31:33 | Motivation should come from what's good enough about us, not what's not what's lacking.

Show Notes:

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The Art of Teamwork and the Working Genius Framework Mar 26, 2024

Episode Description
Have you ever wondered which unique genius you bring to the table at work? In this podcast we chat with Jory Raphael, Rob Madole, and Lindsay Miller, as we dissect Patrick Lencioni's "6 Types of Working Genius" framework. It's not just about identifying whether you're a genius of enablement or invention; it's recognizing how these strengths play out in the real world. We all share tales of energy spikes and drains, revealing how a deep understanding of our working styles help level up our professional experiences and collaborations.

Team chemistry is magical, isn't it? This episode peels back the curtain on the alchemy of team dynamics, celebrating moments when our diverse strengths lead to shared success. You'll hear about Travis, our team's unsung hero, whose knack for Galvanizing brings out the best in us, and how these discoveries about ourselves and each other can turn routine tasks into triumphs. It's about more than just completing projects; it's the shared victory dance when each team member's genius shines, transforming challenges into achievements.

We wrap up with a candid look at the ebbs and flows of creating a Figma plugin, where trust and adaptability are the heroes of our story. It's a testament to the power of balancing skill with empathy and understanding that the journey toward success is rarely a straight line.
--------------------------
Highlights:
0:01:54 - Exploring Working Geniuses and Competencies (80 Seconds)

0:04:53 - Working Genius (57 Seconds)

0:15:20 - Utilizing Working Geniuses in Leadership (66 Seconds)

0:21:30 - Navigating Project Workflow and Decision Making (98 Seconds)

0:24:42 - GDPR Cookie Consent Development Setback (96 Seconds)

-------------------------
Show notes:

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Demystifying Y Combinator Mar 12, 2024

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, we dive deep into the story of Font Awesome founders Dave Gandy and Travis Chase, as they reminisce about their remarkable journey through Y Combinator, the prestigious tech accelerator. The conversation offers listeners an exclusive look into the world of startups, challenges, and triumphs that come with being a part of such an intensive program.

Dave and Travis recount the rigorous application process, their moment of acceptance, and the invaluable lessons learned during their time at YC. This episode demystifies the accelerator experience and provides real-world advice to aspiring YC entrepreneurs.

Their tale is peppered with anecdotes, humor and hard-fought wisdom, drawing parallels from the TV series "Silicon Valley." Listeners will leave with a better understanding of what it takes to step into the ring of tech accelerators and come out with a clear direction.

Key Takeaways:

Y Combinator's rigorous selection process emphasizes the potential of the founders rather than just the product idea.
The importance of preparation for the YC interview, including potential questions and understanding the background and interests of the partners.
Building and nurturing relationships is key to both business and personal development.

Notable Quotes:

"All a startup is is something that's a lie that people believed long enough that it became the truth." - Dave
"If you live your life doing what you think is right and working, when you see those chances arise, then there isn't really anything to regret." - Dave
"The most recent round of YC just wrapped […] they had 20,000 applications and they accepted 1.4%." - Dave

Timestamp
0:02:15 | Importance of thinking big in startups
0:04:43 | Y Combinator as a business trade school
0:05:08 | Focus and community at Y Combinator
0:09:37 | Y Combinator's selection process and emphasis on team
0:10:41 | Y Combinator believes in betting on the right people, not just the idea.
0:11:46 | VCs advise each other to bet on people, but it doesn't always work in practice.
0:12:14 | YC focuses on betting on the people, even without a specific idea.
0:13:17 | The importance of leaving everything on the table during the YC interview.
0:16:07 | Craft a strong answer for how the you can become a billion-dollar company.
0:19:44 | YC educates startups on the venture capital business model.
0:22:24 | Feeling confident after the second interview
0:25:44 | Receiving the call that they got into Y Combinator
0:29:20 | Considering fundraising options: Kickstarter or venture capital
0:29:48 | Y Combinator provides guidance on raising money and crafting pitches.
0:33:43 | Decision to stay self-sufficient and profitable rather than raising series A.
0:36:13 | Preparation and research are key for a successful YC application.
0:40:27 | Identifying character through sacrifice and hard choices
0:41:16 | The extensive interview process at Y Combinator
0:42:02 | Building relationships with mentors and colleagues
0:42:24 | Advice for entrepreneurs: listen to customers and build something they want
0:43:18 | The core value of developing relationships with good people
Show Notes:

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Pressure to Empowerment: Lessons From MIT Feb 27, 2024

About the Guest:

Dave Gandy is Font Awesome's Founder and an MIT alumnus who hails from Carl Junction, Missouri, and reflects on his experience transitioning from a small-town environment to the competitive halls of MIT. With a background rooted in both art and technology, Dave specialized in human-centric product design and has a strong belief in the interplay between creativity, empathy, and engineering. Detailing his educational journey, he conveys a profound understanding of personal growth through adversity, emphasizing how integral unique talents are to individual success.

Episode Summary:

In this profound discussion, Dave Gandy delves into the multifaceted experience of attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), providing a unique perspective that intertwines struggle, growth, and the eventual recognition of one's strengths. The conversation unveils the cultural nuances of MIT, the infamous acronym 'IHTFP', and the myriad emotions associated with the academic pressure cooker that is this renowned institution.

Dave candidly shares his journey from a small town to the rigorous academic world of MIT, including the realities of cultural shift and academic preparedness. He discusses the intensity of the coursework, MIT's famous hacking culture, and the pivotal moments that led to self-discovery and personal growth. Filled with engaging anecdotes, Dave also illustrates the communal encounters and extracurricular exploits that colored his time at the institute.

Key Takeaways:

The acronym 'IHTFP' at MIT can stand for both 'I Hate This F***ing Place' and 'I Have Truly Found Paradise', reflecting the duality of the MIT experience.
MIT pushes students to their limits, uncovering their limitations and potential, a crucial part of personal development that Dave attests can come with "good, healthy pain."
Dave's unique combination of interests in art, technology, and human-centric design became his niche, setting him apart and allowing him to excel in areas beyond traditional academics.
Experiences such as "roof and tunnel hacking" not only serve as a rite of passage but enforce creative problem-solving and ethical boundary-pushing among students.
MIT's competitive atmosphere can induce significant stress and emotional upheaval, highlighting the importance of a solid personal identity and a supportive community.

Notable Quotes:

"Any real significant personal growth will not be had in life without a good bit of healthy kind of pain."
"A company is really nothing more than a lie that people believe long enough until it becomes the truth."
"The real challenge in life, a lot of times is, yeah, but what can I do about it? What are the solutions?"

Timestamp
0:02:14 | MIT experiences involve pain and questioning if it's worth it.
0:05:10 | A teacher's encouragement made Dave consider MIT.
0:08:07 | MIT experiences include dangerous and fun activities.
0:11:31 | Hacking in relation to roof and tunnel hacking
0:15:44 | The practical problem-solving skills gained from hacking
0:19:52 | Dave reflects on discovering his own strengths and finding his sweet spot
0:22:26 | Dave reflects on his experience at MIT and how it shaped him
0:23:22 | The negative outcomes of being driven by emptiness
0:26:39 | Embrace the right kind of pain for growth
0:30:01 | Don't climb someone else's ladder of success
0:32:07 | Dave reflects on their personal growth and values during their time at MIT
0:34:07 | The brutal workload at MIT.

Show Notes:
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie Martin
Audio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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Bridging the Gap: How Devs and Designers Can Work Better Together Feb 15, 2024

In the tech industry, the dynamic between developers and designers looms large - and their collaboration (or lack thereof) influences the outcome of a project. These two distinct disciplines with their specialized terminologies and ways of thinking, often find the need to bridge the gap, to ensure a cohesive and functional deliverable. In this podcast we chat with Cory LaViska, Jory Raphael, and Noah Jacobus to discuss the challenges and experiences they've faced while collaborating as developers and designers.
Key Takeaways:

Communication is key in the collaboration between designers and developers.
Working together from the beginning of a project leads to better outcomes.
Having a shared understanding of each other's roles and constraints is crucial.
Pairing designers and developers on projects fosters collaboration and creativity.
Design systems like Shoelace provide a common ground for designers and developers.

Quotes:

"Communication is key. I think that's number one." - Cory
"Devs and designers, we always have a dev and a designer paired together on a project." - Jory
"Designers ask for the impossible a lot more than might be necessary." - Jory
"Shoelace provides a common ground for both designers and developers to work from." - Cory

Show Notes:

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Font Awesome's 2023 Year in Review Jan 30, 2024

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Podcast Awesome, we chat with Jory Raphael and Rob Madole from the Font Awesome team. They discuss the various projects and updates that Font Awesome has worked on in 2023, including the launch of Font Awesome Sharp, the creation of a Figma plugin, and improvements to Font Awesome's Kits and release process. They also touch on their partnership with Shoelace and hint at exciting things to come in the future. The episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into creating and maintaining Font Awesome, as well as insights into the world of icon design and web development.
Key Takeaways:
Font Awesome Sharp: Font Awesome Sharp is a new icon family introduced by Font Awesome. It features sharp, edgy icons that provide a different aesthetic compared to the classic Font Awesome icons with rounded corners.
YouTube Channel and Podcast Awesome: Font Awesome has launched a YouTube channel where users can find screencasts and promotional videos related to Font Awesome. The team has also created Podcast Awesome, a podcast where they discuss icons, design, tech business, and more.
Improvements to Kits: Font Awesome has made significant improvements to its kits, allowing users to customize and subset the icons they want to use. This helps improve performance and load times, making it easier for users to integrate Font Awesome into their projects.
Partnership with Shoelace: Font Awesome has partnered with Shoelace, a popular web component library, to further enhance their offerings. The collaboration aims to provide users with even more awesome features and improvements.
Future Work: Font Awesome has exciting projects in the pipeline, including integrated work with the Shoelace team and the development of new features and updates. The team is constantly working to improve Font Awesome and provide users with the best possible experience.
Notable Quotes:
"Font Awesome Sharp brings a new aesthetic to our icon library, with sharp and edgy icons that provide a different look and feel compared to our classic icons." - Jory Raphael
"We've made significant improvements to our kits, allowing users to customize and subset the icons they want to use. This helps improve performance and load times, making it easier for users to integrate Font Awesome into their projects." - Rob Madole
"Our partnership with Shoelace has been a game-changer. We're excited to work together and take Font Awesome to the next level, providing users with even more awesome features and improvements." - Jory Raphael
Show Notes:

Time stamps
0:00:09
Introduction to Podcast Awesome
0:04:11
Launch of Podcast Awesome
0:04:31
Launch

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Why We Use "Shape Up" for Project Management Nov 07, 2023

In this podcast Matt and Travis discuss Shape Up, a project management philosophy created by 37 Signals, the makers of Basecamp, and how it helps Font Awesome stay on track. Instead of trying to build everything at once, Font Awesome ships complete features. By using the Shape Up method, Font Awesome has been able to deliver products efficiently and effectively, which reduces the risk of delivering an unsatisfactory product.

The traditional waterfall process, by contrast, can take a very long time to build a product that is often out of date by the time it is completed. During his career, Travis has worked with a variety of project management methodologies, including Agile, Scrum, and Kanban. In the end, the Font Awesome team has found that Shape Up works best, allowing them to ship consistently and at a pace that aligns with their philosophy of business and life.
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HIGHLIGHTS:

"One of the surprising things and sort of a takeaway I took from reading Shape Up is that it's okay — It might even be expected that certain work gets abandoned and that shipping really is the highest priority and that backlogs kill productivity. And that kind of goes along with the philosophy, too, of work, that you have to have constraints and limits to actually allow creativity to flow. And you can't do everything. So you do have to have constraints. You do have to be able to say no. "

"Dave and I take a lot of inspiration from the books that 37Signals put out like Rework and It Doesn't Have to be Crazy at Work. Those kinds of things. And trying to maybe do business differently, do our own spin on it, see what works for us based on all the places we've worked. And kind of how we would try to change things. And one of those things that I ran into — and I'll speak for me — ran into my career is you might get a solution to find we need this feature X and the software and we're going to give you three weeks to develop it."

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TIMESTAMPS:

0:00:09 Shape Up Method and How Font Awesome Uses It

0:02:41 Discussion on Traditional Waterfall and Agile Methodologies

0:04:22 Agile and Kanban Methodologies for Software Development

0:07:51 Product Development Lifecycle Using Shape Up Methodology

0:09:15 Exploring the Benefits of Six-Week Splits and Two-Week Cooldowns for Software Delivery

0:11:18 How Two Week Cooldowns Allow For Side-projects like “Space Awesome”.

0:12:39 An Overview of the Shape Up Workflow Process

0:15:39 Shape Up and Font Awesome's Business Philosophy

0:19:16 The Benefits of a 40-Hour Work Week and Embracing the Whole Person

0:20:51 The Benefits of Allowing Creativity and Autonomy in the Workplace

0:22:39 Exploring the Benefits of Font-Building Engine "Haunt Forge"

0:23:56 The Icon Wizard and Building with Creative Constraints

0:27:35 Iterative Development and the 37 Signals BaseCamp Methodology

0:29:41 Summary of Discussion on Software Development Methodologies and Project Management Methodologies

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Notes

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Exploring Patrick Lencioni's 6 Types of Working Genius with Font Awesome Founder Dave Gandy Oct 24, 2023

On this episode of Podcast Awesome, Matt chats with Font Awesome founder Dave Gandy about Patrick Lencioni's ideas behind Working Genius. They discuss how the six types of Working Genius help identify working strengths and weaknesses, creating more effective teams and getting more done efficiently. Dave explains how their company got introduced to Lencioni's ideas and how they started doing leadership training. They emphasize the importance of work culture and how it affects a company's success.
TIME STAMPS

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[00:06:19] Six types of working genius.

[00:09:53] Remote work relationships.

[00:16:57] Wonder and innovation.

[00:19:12] Taking the time for work.

[00:23:09] Importance of being a domain expert.

[00:24:55] Tenacity in the workplace.

[00:27:58] Ideation process and meetings.

[00:30:43] Working geniuses and efficiency.

[00:33:59] Organizational health and satisfaction.

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NOTES

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Nerd Show and Tell: Meet Jason Otero Oct 05, 2023

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, we chat with software engineer Jason Otero about his recent work on Font Awesome Kits, the benefits of working on six-week splits, and his love for playing guitar in two different bands. Tune in for an engaging discussion on tech, business, and nerdery.
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Time Stamps
[00:00:36] Six week splits vs two week sprints.

[00:05:57] New method of loading Kits.

[00:07:18] CSS-only web font Kits.

[00:09:47] Project management methods.

[00:12:41] Full benefits of 'cool down' time.

[00:18:33] WebAssembly and Rust technology.

[00:19:09] Programming language preferences.

[00:22:14] Favorite icons and hobbies.

[00:26:33] Guitar gear obsession.

[00:31:38] Music and Band Promotion.
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Show Notes

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Behind the Pixels: Designing Icons the Font Awesome Way Sep 18, 2023

Dive into the minds of Font Awesome's Jory Raphael and Noah Jacobus as they discuss their unique approach to design process. Discover how they balance structure and creativity in the ever-evolving world of icon design.
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TIMESTAMPS
[00:01:23] Design process.
[00:05:01] High level sketching.
[00:07:45] Figma for interface design.
[00:10:39] Designing dinosaur icons.
[00:14:08] Messy creative process.
[00:17:13] Creative process and productivity.
[00:20:31] Brain science in music.
[00:23:38] Creating a new schedule.
[00:26:52] Creative process and pressure.
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NOTES
The Font Awesome theme song was composed by Ronnie MartinAudio mastering by Chris Enns and Lemon Productions

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Nerd Show and Tell: Meet Kelsey Jackson, Designer and Front-End Developer Sep 05, 2023

In our latest installment of the Nerd Show and Tell, we have the pleasure of chatting with Kelsey Jackson, Font Awesome's Designer and Front End Developer. Maybe you've noticed how slick the Font Awesome site looks these days? Yeah, Kelsey is responsible for quite a bit of that work.

In this episode, Matt chats with Kelsey about his recent chunk of work where he helped create an internal design system, how he met Dave Gandy, won him over, started contracting, and eventually landed a job. (Kelsey called this process a “long con”, but we think it was probably a more virtuous process than that.)

In addition to telling the story of how a high school art teacher convinced him to pursue a career in design and front-end development, Kelsey also discusses his passion for B-grade horror, experimenting in the kitchen at home, as well as his newfound interest in cocktail mixology. (According to Kelsey, middle-of-the-road rum is just as good as top-notch stuff when it comes to mixed drinks.)
TIMESTAMPS:

0:00:16 Creating an Internal Design System and More

0:02:43 Kelsey's Former Job at Waco Media as a Developer/Designer

0:04:28 Exploring the Connection Between Drawing and Design

0:07:29 Refining and Standardizing a Design System at Font Awesome

0:11:57 Design System Consistency and Compliance

0:13:27 Web Components, Machine Learning AI, and Content Creation

0:15:34 Kelsey's Horror Movie Icon Wish-List

0:17:32 B-Grade Horror and Crappy Job Experiences

0:22:07 Reflections on Working at a Car Wash and Assisting with Disaster Relief

0:27:49 Conversation on Spirits, Sneakers, and Celebratory Bottles of Bourbon at the Bi-Annual Snuggles

0:29:47 Cooking Steak and Mixing Tiki Drinks

0:31:25 Conversation About Hulu Series "The Bear"

0:33:29 Maddie Matheson's Foodie Comedy

0:35:18 Resources For Learning About Design Systems
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Notes

Some of the places Kelsey goes for cooking inspiration

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Unlocking Figma's Rainbow Magic: How We Transformed Our Icon Design Process Aug 22, 2023

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, we sit down for a little chat with Noah Jacobus and Jory Raphael and discuss the benefits of using Figma for collaborative design and icon design. They highlight Figma's unique features, such as its Boolean operations and non-destructive vector editing, and compare it to other design software like Adobe Illustrator.
We also touch on the recent acquisition of Figma by Adobe and the possibility of creating a Font Awesome plugin for Figma.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:05:56 Tools don't always matter.
00:12:12 Adobe owns Figma now.
00:12:31 Adobe acquisitions can be good (and sometimes bad).
00:24:22 Linking Font Awesome Pro accounts.
00:27:09 Figma has rainbow magic.
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HIGHLIGHTS
"So Figma has rainbow magic." (00:26:57-00:27:19)"Figma is a central place where we can both work in the same file at the same time.
If I make a change, he sees it." (00:20:52-00:23:44)"Noah is entirely responsible for us moving to Figma." (00:00:00-00:03:29)
"And the ability to easily test things in the context of digital products is kind of where it found its place for me." (00:03:23-00:06:24)
"Being able to identify each of those, you know, every element of a stroke shape or path and make adjustments to it that way is pretty cool." (00:17:58-00:20:57)
"Boolean operations are one of the biggest ones... it's kind of a unique way of treating stroked objects like their actual shapes at the same time... that is something that it can't do. So it's a nice more unique feature." (00:15:08-00:18:08)
"I think that Figma is enough of a powerhouse kind of on its own that that's not going to happen with the employees there and the community, especially as such a huge force with a lot of momentum behind it that helps support the product and keeps it moving." (00:11:51-00:15:16)
"There are just tons of things that are out there that if you run into an issue, someone else likely has run into it already and there's probably a plugin that exists to fix it or address it, which is awesome." (00:23:38-00:27:07)
"But what started to become really appealing to me about Figma was, as Noah said, some of the, well, number one, the simplicity of collaboration, which is now super important because we have multiple icon designers at Fawn Awesome, but also some of their unique takes on doing things with vectors." (00:06:17-00:09:04)
"We made a slight tactical mistake of announcing our new Sharp icons before they were completely done...I put the call out to some icon designers that I knew and admired to see if they could help us with the project of getting the sharp icons out the door...And he shared a Figma file...I took them and I looked at them and it was so fun to be able to manipulate them...I was able to trick Noah into spending some more time on the sharp icons...I had been starting work on a personal project for myself that was sharp icon based...And so I was already kind of very much ingrained in sharp, chunky icon world." (00:08:59-00:11:56)
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NOTES

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Nerd Show and Tell: Meet Joey Hensen Font Awesome's Controller Aug 08, 2023

In this episode, we chat with Joey Henson, the Controller at Font Awesome. Throughout his career, Joey has been working in the startup world, which has lasted most of his time, but he has found himself feeling the strain of burnout since the birth of his son. According to Joey, there can be a lot of pressure in the finance world. Everyone works long hours in an effort to justify their existence in a world that's pretty stressful. Font Awesome, on the other hand, is not like that at all. Joey has noticed a difference in the work culture between Font Awesome and other startups, as the environment at Font Awesome is more relaxed and supportive. This is largely due to the founders' approach to work-life balance and that management understands the effects of burnout and wants to prioritize the well-being of their employees. Having a good work-life balance has enabled Joey to have time for his family and to enjoy a reasonable work-life balance.

Although Joey currently works at Font Awesome in a role that isn't tech-oriented, in his spare time, he enjoys learning SQL, Ruby programming, and Ruby on Rails in addition to his regular job at Font Awesome. Joey also shares how he helped find a Harry Potter themed metaphor to help explain Font Awesome Kits, how he has lobbied for the development of a Harry Potter themed icon set, his obsession with nutrition, fitness, and his journey towards better health over the past few years.
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TIMESTAMPS

0:03:50
Reflection on the Challenges of Working Long Hours

0:05:27
Self-Development and Quality of Life at Font Awesome

0:08:43
Tech, Finance, and Harry Potter Icon Pack at Font Awesome

0:11:13
Exploring Harry Potter Lore to Explain the Functionality of Kits

0:18:34
Dungeons & Dragons and Nutrition Habits

0:20:20
Counting Macros for Optimal Health and Fitness
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HIGHLIGHTS
In a previous Snuggle, we were talking about metaphors or some way to describe how a kit works. And I seem to remember an allusion to Harry Potter lore would maybe be a good way to explain it. I think we discovered that there was confusion among folks between whether a kit is populated like it's a container that's full of something, or if it's empty and you add to it. And what we came around to say was more accurate is that a kit comes fully loaded with everything you might want to use.
Yeah, it is. So Hermione, the beaded bag, it had an undetectable extension charm on it. They used that multiple times in the books and the movies. And it is it's kind of like the DND bag of holding where you can pull out a lot of stuff if you know what's in there. And it comes pre loaded. That works. So, like with Hermiones, the best analogy I could think of was they needed a ton of books and they needed clothes, and when they needed that, Hermione said, oh, let me grab that. Let me just get that out of this bag here. And that's kind of how the kits work, too. You're 100% right. I remember that conversation now where it's, hey, you don't have to worry about it. We've already got it handled for you, and we're going to make it super easy for you to get that out of there.
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NOTES

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Font Awesome Takes the Stage: A Recap of Config 2023 Aug 03, 2023

Summary
In this episode of Podcast Awesome, Matt sits down with icon designers Jory Raphael and Noah Jacobus to discuss their experience at the Config conference. They share insights and highlights from the event, including their own talk on drawing icons in Figma. From keynote talks by industry leaders to the importance of collaboration and design-first approaches, this episode covers it all. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of design, tech, and business.
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Timestamps
[00:02:23] Figma's acquisition by Adobe.

[00:06:06] Icelandic entrepreneur Halli Thorleifsson.

[00:10:28] The awkwardness of speaking to an empty room.

[00:14:14] The structured process for prepping for a conference talk.

[00:17:25] Virtual presentations and audience feedback.

[00:22:07] Variables in Figma.

[00:24:18] Outro
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Notes

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Icon Designers Jory Raphael and Noah Jacobus Discuss the History and Future of Font Awesome Icons Jul 25, 2023

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, Matt Johnson interviews icon designers Jory Raphael and Noah Jacobus. They explore the history of Font Awesome and its development over the years. Jory shares how he came to hire Noah, someone he has admired and followed digitally for years (in the biz, it’s called a “designer crush.”) They also discuss their design process and talk a bit about the process of developing the Sharp family of styles.
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TIME STAMPS
[00:00:39] Designer Crushes.

00:05:57 Font Awesome acquires Symbolset.

[00:08:19] Creating a video for Kickstarter.

[00:11:20] Designing niche icons.

00:12:10 Design icons to convey meaning.

[00:13:40] The power of icons.

[00:17:02] Icons as a continuation of art.

00:18:12 Creativity thrives with constraints.

[00:23:36] Font Awesome 6 redesign.

[00:24:45] Icon design tips.

[00:28:49] Developing artistic taste.

00:30:29 Practice makes perfect.

[00:33:00] Constantly improving design quality.

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NOTES

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Appreciating the Virtuous Cycle of Nerdery with Mike Wilkerson Jul 11, 2023

On this episode of Podcast Awesome, Matt talks with lead programmer Mike Wilkerson from Font Awesome about his professional background and current role at the company. Wilkerson shares his passion for computer programming and tells the story of how he fell in love with coding while working at Walmart. He also discusses his work related to the design tool used by Font Awesome's designers and shares his fandom for the Marble Machine X music project.
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TIME STAMPS
[00:00:36] Design tool used by designers.

[00:07:24] SVG Circles Wobbling.

[00:07:48] Perfecting wobbly circles.

[00:12:12] Favorite Font Awesome icons.

[00:16:57] Meditation practice.

[00:19:30] Martin Molin's Marble Machine X.

[00:23:40] Finding motivation in mundane work.

[00:26:17] Appreciating good curves and circles.

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NOTES

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When Failure Isn’t Failure: Hard Lessons in Business and Life with Dave Gandy Jun 27, 2023

In this episode of Podcast Awesome, host Matt Johnson talks with Font Awesome founder Dave Gandy about the lessons learned from failing in business and life. They discuss Gandy's experience of flunking out of MIT twice and how it impacted his journey as an entrepreneur. They also delve into a story about the Font Awesome 5 Kickstarter campaign and the self-fulfilling prophecies that can shape our beliefs and reality. Gandy shares his insights into the startup world and the power of believing a lie long enough that it becomes the truth.
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TIME STAMPS
00:04:54 Failure is not final.
00:07:30 Embrace reality and grow.
00:10:06 Failure is an opportunity for growth.
00:18:56 Nothing is ever truly failure.
00:23:25 Find trustworthy partners for success.
00:27:05 Trust your teammates.
00:29:09 Try hard things and learn.
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NOTES

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Character First: Why Font Awesome Doesn’t Hire “Rock Stars” and “A Players” Jun 13, 2023

In this podcast, Font Awesome founders, Dave Gandy and Travis Chase, discuss how hiring the right people to the team is the first and best approach to building a strong company culture.

The 37 Signals blog, and their books gave Dave and Travis inspiration on how to do business and software differently. Dave and Travis had both built software together and had proof that they knew how to create user-centric product design, so why not also build a people-first company, too? But they’d have to rethink standard hiring practices.

Often, nearsighted companies hire so-called “A Player”, or “Rock Star” employees. Unfortunately, folks with this reputation are often egotistical jerks that cause more problems in companies than solutions. Why hire a new employee for their skills first, to only fire them for issues of character later? Dave believes this is backward. A key ingredient to creating a different sort of company is to hire folks who are first of all humble, possess the necessary skills for the job, and have a love for learning. The rest can be taught.

—---------------------------------

Timestamps