Develpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur

We continue our discussion with Christian Espinosa and turn to learning from your first business as you build another. We also talk about security and the cyber world, but his points on team-building and lessons learned are of a larger value. His experience is not unique, but the detail he provides helps us end the season on a deeply informative note. Start New While Learning From Your First Business We all make mistakes. Christian looked closely at his when he decided to create a new business. He also reviewed what he did right and used that as a foundation. These are invaluable areas to ensure we are learning from our first business as we start a second. Experience is the perfect teacher, and few business owners get to start with that level of experience. About Christian Christian Espinosa, a renowned thought leader, is most known as the bestselling author of "The Smartest Person in the Room," which explores the limitations of seeking validation through achievement and the desire to be the brightest intellect in any room. With a deep desire to inspire others to harness their innate wisdom, overcome perceived barriers, and summon the courage to tread new paths, Christian authored his latest book, "The In-Between: Life in the Micro." This book chronicles his remarkable transformation—from a "me against the world" mindset. One that was cultivated during his tumultuous upbringing. Into his evolution as a compassionate global citizen committed to uplifting humanity. A dynamic entrepreneur, Christian built and successfully sold Alpine Security, a cybersecurity business. He founded and currently leads Blue Goat Cyber (https://bluegoatcyber.com/). He also has an array of professional and personal development certifications. His expertise extends beyond the confines of the corporate world: he's a white hat hacker, a captivating keynote speaker, a wise real estate investor, and a connoisseur of heavy metal music and fiery cuisines. He's also spent time in the Mexican jungle with Mayan Shamans, is a C-License skydiver, and is a PADI divemaster. Whatever Christian tries, he tends to master. Beyond his impactful professional pursuits, Christian's zest for life knows no bounds. An adventurer at heart, he fearlessly leaps from planes and balloons, conquers towering peaks, explores the globe, imparts wisdom in outdoor wilderness survival, and even takes on the rigorous challenges of Ironman triathlons. Having completed an impressive 24 Ironman triathlons and scaled two of the renowned Seven Summits, Christian Espinosa epitomizes the spirit of transformative leadership and unyielding exploration. Learn More Learn more about Christian at :https://christianespinosa.com/ .Purchase one of his books, available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T6QK6FN https://www.amazon.com/Between-Life-Micro-Christian-Espinosa-ebook/dp/B0CP8RYV55 or take his course: https://programs.christianespinosa.com/the-secure-methodology

In this episode of Building Better Developers, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit one of the most essential pillars of software development — requirements gathering. As part of the Building Better Foundations season, this discussion dives deep into why strong requirements are not just documentation — they're the blueprint of success for every software project. From Classroom Rules to Real-World Clarity Rob opens the discussion by highlighting a gap many developers face: they're trained to solve problems, but not to define them. In classrooms and coding bootcamps, students are handed requirements. But in the real world, success depends on a developer's ability to uncover and validate them. Early-career developers often transition from following fixed assignments to navigating vague project goals. Rob emphasizes that the most important skill they can develop is asking smart, clarifying questions — turning fuzzy instructions into actionable tasks. For example, if a task says, "Add two numbers," the experienced developer asks: Are they always integers? Can they be decimals or negatives? Should the result be formatted or displayed? "Strong requirements start with strong questions. Don't just do the task — define it." – Rob Broadhead The Recipe Analogy: How Cooking Teaches Strong Requirements Michael brings the discussion home with a relatable metaphor — cooking. Every recipe is a set of instructions, ingredients, and steps. If you change them — like adding raisins to chocolate chip cookies — you get the wrong result. The same goes for software. Weak requirements lead to unpredictable results. Strong requirements lead to consistent, repeatable success. Each requirement should be clear, testable, and unambiguous — something that can be verified as true or false. Ambiguous statements like "allow users to enter data" need refinement: What kind of data? Is it numeric, text, or secure input? Without that clarity, developers risk misunderstanding the goal. The "And Then What?" Approach to Strong Requirements Rob introduces his favorite tool for strengthening requirements: the "And then what?" method. After each answer, ask what happens next. "The user logs in." → And then what? "They see a dashboard." → And then what happens if it fails? Each "and then" uncovers gaps, edge cases, and overlooked scenarios. Great developers think like curious toddlers — always asking "why" and "what next" until every path is clear. Speaking the Same Language Another foundation of strong requirements is communication. Many clients express what they want, but not what they need. Developers must bridge that gap, asking why to understand the purpose behind each request. Michael reminds us that non-technical stakeholders often assume things are apparent — but what's evident to them might be missing from the documentation. Practical requirements gathering bridges those blind spots before development begins. Building for the Future with Strong Requirements Finally, both hosts stress scalability. Systems designed without future growth in mind will quickly collapse under success. Strong requirements anticipate change — considering performance, user volume, and integrations from day one. "If your system can't scale, your foundation wasn't strong enough." – Michael Meloche Key Takeaway Strong requirements aren't just a step in the process — they are the process. They transform ideas into actionable blueprints, prevent scope creep, and ensure teams deliver software that lasts. To build better software, start by building better foundations — with strong requirements. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Creating Your Product Requirements Creating Use Cases and Gathering Requirements Getting It Right: How Effective Requirements Gathering Leads to Successful Software Projects Building Better Foundations Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Foundations on the Building Better Developers podcast, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore one of today's fastest-growing software trends—vibe coding. Vibe coding blends human creativity with artificial intelligence, allowing developers to describe what they need and let AI generate code in real time. It's a revolutionary idea that promises speed, flexibility, and innovation—but it also raises new questions about structure, consistency, and long-term maintainability. What Exactly Is Vibe Coding? At its core, vibe coding means coding collaboratively with AI. Developers outline the functionality, design, and structure they want, while AI produces the initial code and suggestions. This makes it ideal for rapid prototyping and minimum viable products (MVPs)—helping teams turn ideas into functioning apps in record time. "You're using AI to generate some code and basically allowing AI to code as you go," Rob explains. The catch? Without solid foundations and thoughtful architecture, the speed of AI-generated code can create technical debt—making long-term projects harder to maintain or scale. Using AI as a Junior Developer Rob compares vibe coding to collaborating with a junior or mid-level developer: capable and fast, but in need of clear direction. "If you define your architecture, style, and structure clearly," he says, "AI can build pages and components that fit your system." The best results come from specific, incremental prompts. Instead of asking for an entire app, start small—perhaps a single navigation bar or form layout—and refine from there. Each small win compounds into a solid, scalable solution. From User Stories to Smart Code Michael takes the discussion further, explaining how test-driven development (TDD) and user stories make vibe coding more reliable and efficient. "If you walk AI through the user story—'as a user, I need to log in'—you'll get a better, more useful result," he says. Start by asking AI to write a test case for your feature. Once that test passes, ask it to generate the code. This simple adjustment keeps AI aligned with real-world behavior and helps non-coders understand how requirements become working software. 5 Pro Tips for Smarter Vibe Coding Be Specific: Define frameworks, styling, and goals in your prompts. Start Small: Break your requests into clear, focused tasks. Iterate Often: Review, test, and refine AI output continuously. Think in Tests: Use user stories and TDD to guide quality. Validate Needs: Confirm requirements before coding begins. Avoiding the Trap of Confirmation Bias Michael also warns against confirmation bias—believing AI's output simply because it sounds right. "AI can tell you what you think you need, not what you actually need," he cautions. To stay grounded, developers should regularly check with clients or end users to confirm that AI-generated solutions align with real requirements. AI is a tool, not a truth engine. From Prototype to Production While vibe coding is perfect for prototypes, Rob reminds listeners that production-ready systems still need human craftsmanship. Clean architecture, maintainable code, and performance tuning remain crucial for success. AI can accelerate development—but it's still the developer's job to ensure that the final product is secure, scalable, and sustainable. Final Thoughts on Vibe Coding Vibe coding represents a major shift in how developers think about building software. Used wisely, it enhances creativity, speeds up delivery, and reduces repetitive tasks. Used carelessly, it can create chaos and confusion. As Rob and Michael emphasize, the secret lies in balance: human insight plus AI efficiency. Together, they form the foundation for faster, smarter, and better software. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Improving Coding Skills: Building Better Developers by Building Better Habits Coding Options: No-Code, Low-Code & AI Vibe The Importance of Properly Defining Requirements Building Better Foundations Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche continue their conversation with Agustin Morrone, CEO and co-founder of Vintti, a company improving the remote hiring process for U.S. and Canadian businesses across Latin America. From his base in Barcelona, Agustin explains how Vintti combines AI, automation, and cultural alignment to build remote teams faster while keeping people at the center. Vintti's mission remains clear: help companies hire top Latin American talent in under 21 days, saving up to 60 percent on payroll while maintaining quality and trust. In Part 2, we explore how Vintti's evolving systems make the remote hiring process smarter and more scalable. Using AI to Strengthen the Remote Hiring Process Vintti's young, tech-driven team approaches work with an "AI-first mindset." Rather than replacing people, AI removes repetitive tasks that slow down the remote hiring process. Originally, every interview was manual. Now, AI manages more than half of all first-round interviews, rating English proficiency and technical expertise. Recruiters then step in to evaluate communication style and cultural fit. "AI helps us focus on what matters most," Agustin says. "It saves time and allows our recruiters to build stronger relationships." Automation Tools That Simplify Remote Recruitment Vintti automates much of its communication and reporting to improve efficiency. Instead of sending raw resumes, it builds custom, client-ready CVs using AI. Each profile merges data from interviews, LinkedIn, and client discussions into a consistent, easy-to-read document. Automated follow-ups and feedback loops help recruiters stay engaged throughout the remote hiring process, keeping clients informed without losing the human connection. Automation drives consistency, but empathy drives connection. Human Insight: The Key to Remote Hiring Success AI helps identify top candidates, yet it can't replace intuition. Recruiters still assess tone, enthusiasm, and motivation—critical elements of cultural fit. Similarly, Vintti maintains personal conversations with each client to understand company culture before sourcing talent. This ensures every step of the hiring process reflects both human judgment and data-driven insight. Testing, Learning, and Improving the Remote Hiring Process Experimentation fuels progress at Vintti. Recruiters rely heavily on LinkedIn but constantly test new tools to expand reach and reduce friction. "We test, compare, and adapt," Agustin explains. "If a tool adds value, we scale it. If not, we move on." This culture of experimentation keeps the hiring process innovative and resilient. Cultural Patterns in Global Recruiting Regional patterns help Vintti understand candidate strengths. Colombian professionals often shine in customer support, Argentines excel in sales, and Mexican talent frequently leads in finance. However, Agustin cautions against stereotyping. "Patterns are helpful, but people are unique," he says. That perspective ensures fairness and flexibility in every hiring process decision. Supporting Global Teams After Placement Once hired, contractors integrate fully into client organizations. Vintti provides behind-the-scenes support—helping with taxes, communication skills, and professional development—while avoiding cultural interference. Support Principle: Empower independence and provide structure. This hands-off guidance strengthens relationships and keeps the hiring process transparent from start to finish. Discipline and Growth in the Hiring Journey Internally, Agustin looks for self-motivated people who take ownership. He values discipline over motivation, believing that commitment leads to better long-term outcomes. "Motivation fades, but discipline lasts," he explains. This mindset ensures every member of the Vintti team contributes to refining the hiring process daily. The Future of the Remote Hiring Process Agustin believes AI will reshape global recruiting. While some jobs will change, others will grow. Vintti plans to: Identify new skill trends early. Use automation and AI to make hiring faster and smarter. "Companies that work with AI—not against it—will win," Agustin concludes. Key Takeaway Agustin Morrone's story shows that the modern remote hiring process depends on balance. AI delivers speed and consistency, while people provide connection and understanding. Together, they build stronger teams worldwide. Learn more about their mission at www.vintti.com. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Online Communities and Marketing Protecting Your Brand and Avoiding Legal Trouble How to Succeed with Digital Marketing for Small Businesses Getting the word out, promoting your blog Building Better Foundations Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche speak with Agustin Morrone, CEO and co-founder of Vintti. The company helps U.S. and Canadian businesses master remote hiring across Latin America. From Barcelona, Morrone shares how his bootstrapped startup is growing fast while staying true to its people-first culture. Vintti's mission is simple yet bold. The team helps companies build remote Latin American teams in less than 21 days. They often save clients up to 60% on payroll costs. More importantly, they deliver strong talent that fits culturally and professionally. Morrone's vision redefines remote hiring as a human-centered process built on trust and shared goals. From Argentina to Barcelona: Building a Remote Hiring Vision Agustin Morrone was born in Argentina and now lives in Spain. After earning an MBA, he joined a startup that automated financial planning for global firms. There, he discovered a major problem. Many companies could automate their systems, yet they struggled to find qualified remote professionals. "There was a shortage of skilled professionals who understood the U.S. market and could deliver real value," Morrone explains. That insight inspired him to launch Vintti, a company dedicated to remote hiring for North American clients. The focus on Latin America made sense. The region shares time zones, values, and strong English skills. This approach ensures clients receive not only technical expertise but also a cultural match. Building Trust Through Secure Remote Hiring When companies hire for finance or accounting roles, data security becomes critical. Morrone explains how Vintti protects both sides of the partnership. "We never access client data. Clients install their own software and security measures," he says. The company runs detailed background and reference checks. It verifies professional histories and technical skills. As a result, every candidate meets strict ethical and professional standards. This attention to detail makes remote hiring safe and reliable for both clients and talent. Culture and Fit: The Heart of Remote Hiring Success About 85% of Vintti's workforce operates as contractors. However, the company goes far beyond quick placements. Morrone believes the hardest part of remote hiring is not skill—it's culture. "The toughest thing to find is cultural alignment," he says. "Technical skills matter, but culture determines success." Rather than keeping a bench of idle candidates, Vintti searches for the perfect match each time. Every placement aligns with a client's values, work style, and long-term goals. As a result, teams perform better and relationships last longer. Scaling Remote Hiring Through Relationships and Community Growth at Vintti has come through real relationships, not ads. Paid campaigns have been challenging. However, outreach-driven marketing has delivered great results. "We focus on relationships—LinkedIn engagement, conferences, and meeting clients face-to-face," says Morrone. This people-first approach gives Vintti a clear advantage in today's remote hiring market. After the pandemic, many leaders wanted personal connection again. Therefore, Vintti's direct and genuine approach builds credibility and long-term trust. Leadership Lessons in Remote Hiring Interestingly, one of Vintti's biggest challenges is its own remote hiring. Morrone personally interviews each finalist to protect company culture. "As CEO, I see myself as the guardian of our culture," he explains. "I hire people with ambition, alignment, and attitude." To support growth, Vintti invests heavily in processes and standard procedures. These systems ensure consistent onboarding and operations. "When you grow fast, it's hard to document everything," Morrone admits. "But once you find what works, you have to capture it and scale it." Key Takeaway Agustin Morrone's story offers a roadmap for modern remote hiring. His journey proves that success comes from trust, integrity, and strong relationships. Vintti shows that hiring across borders is not just about filling roles—it's about building teams that share values and vision. Learn more about Vintti's mission at www.vintti.com. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Online Communities and Marketing Protecting Your Brand and Avoiding Legal Trouble How to Succeed with Digital Marketing for Small Businesses Getting the word out, promoting your blog Building Better Foundations Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this continuation of the Building Better Developers interview series, Kevin Adelsberger—owner of Adelsberger Marketing—returns to explore how businesses can refine their identity and message once the foundation is set. This episode focuses on branding and marketing fundamentals, uncovering what really drives connection, credibility, and growth. "Thinking about your brand and overall messaging is more important than color or font," Kevin explains. "If your brand feels disconnected, no color will fix that." The conversation moves beyond logos and design to the deeper work of communicating who you are and what you stand for—authentically and consistently. Branding: More Than Color and Fonts While many companies spend hours perfecting color palettes, Kevin challenges that mindset. He believes color psychology is largely a myth, with few industries where color directly affects success. Instead, businesses should focus on how their messaging and visuals align. Fonts, he adds, do have power. The right typeface can instantly signal tone—formal, playful, or high-tech—but only when used intentionally. "If you want to be a fun, crazy brand and your visuals feel stiff, no amount of color will fix the disconnect." A strong brand reflects alignment: visuals, tone, and message working together to create trust and recognition. Keep Your Message Steady, but Your Website Fresh Kevin offers a balanced approach to maintaining your digital presence. Instead of obsessing over analytics or daily edits, he recommends structured consistency: Review your website monthly or quarterly for updates or broken features. Keep messaging steady, but stay alert for functionality issues like broken forms or outdated information. Focus on inbound marketing—making sure your brand is ready when customers come looking—then turn attention to outbound efforts like networking and content creation. "Most people never look at their website after it launches—that's a bigger problem than over-tweaking it." Once your brand identity and message are established, spend more time sharing your expertise rather than endlessly adjusting pixels. Marketing Fundamentals for Beginners For entrepreneurs and small business owners who feel lost, Kevin recommends a few key resources to master branding and marketing fundamentals: Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller — Understand how clear messaging connects you with customers. EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey — Learn business and marketing principles from a leadership perspective. The Four Conversations by Blair Enns — Explore how to sell through consultative, relationship-driven discussions. Kevin also emphasizes simple, actionable steps: Define your competitive advantages and what makes you different. Create a one-liner that captures who you help and how. Avoid generic stock photos—real people and stories build trust. Feature your leadership team online; authenticity builds credibility. Learn from Competitors—Ethically Healthy competition can inspire innovation. Kevin encourages learning from peers and even collaborating with them. He participates in groups like the Bureau of Digital, a network of agency owners who share ideas without direct competition. "Artists steal," Kevin jokes, "but the goal is to make other people's ideas better, not to copy them." For those in established industries, he suggests finding professional or ownership groups—places where you can share, learn, and grow together. AI's Impact on Marketing and Creativity The conversation inevitably turns to artificial intelligence. Kevin views AI as both a tool and a threat—a resource that democratizes creativity while also reshaping industries. He points out the uncertainty around copyright, authenticity, and ethics, but admits that ignoring AI isn't an option. His team meets weekly to test new tools and evaluate where they can help. "We use AI to assist us, not replace us," Kevin says. "It helps us work faster, but not everything it creates is ready for prime time." From generating first-draft website content to creating AI voiceovers when budgets are tight, Kevin shows how these tools can fill gaps—without losing the human touch. Staying Grounded in a Changing Landscape Despite new technologies and shifting trends, Kevin's message remains timeless: strong branding is built on clarity, consistency, and authenticity. As the conversation wraps up, he reminds listeners that tools may evolve, but trust remains the core of every successful brand. "Stay human, stay honest, and keep refining your foundation." A Little Background Kevin Adelsberger is the founder of Adelsberger Marketing, where they create work that grows their clients' businesses, in a culture that values their team and the Jackson, Tennessee, community. After founding in 2014, Kevin went on to be a co-founder of Our Jackson Home and host its podcast from 2015 to 2019.  In 2016, Kevin was recognized as an emerging leader by Leadership Jackson. Then, in 2017, Adelsberger Marketing was named the Emerging Business of the Year by the Jackson Chamber. In 2019, Adelsberger Marketing sold partial ownership to Alexander, Thompson, and Arnold, CPAs. In 2020, Union University recognized Kevin with the Distinguished Achievement in Arts and Media award.  Kevin currently serves on advisory committees for Leadership Tennessee and Jackson State Community College and is a board member for theCO in Jackson, Tennessee.  He also hosts a podcast about business in West Tennessee called 40×45.  Kevin lives in Jackson with his wife and business partner, Renae, and their two children. They are active foster parents and are involved members of First Baptist Church, Jackson. They are also some of the few to cheer on the Minnesota Vikings from below the Mason-Dixon line. #Skol Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Online Communities and Marketing Protecting Your Brand and Avoiding Legal Trouble How to Succeed with Digital Marketing for Small Businesses Getting the word out, promoting your blog Building Better Foundations Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche sit down with Kevin Adelsberger, owner of Adelsberger Marketing, to explore how small businesses can build success through branding basics. The discussion ties into the season's theme — Building Better Foundations — and shows how a thoughtful marketing strategy helps transform side hustles into thriving companies. Listen now to the full episode on Building Better Developers, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Develpreneur.com — and stay tuned for Part 2 of the conversation with Kevin Adelsberger. Starting Small: Branding Basics from Burritos to Business Kevin's marketing journey started with burritos — literally. While working at a nonprofit, he began helping a local restaurant with its marketing in exchange for food. That early "say yes to everything" mindset helped him gain experience and connections. "When you're starting out, the answer is often yes to everything," Kevin says. "But that can spread you too thin." This early phase taught him one of the first branding basics: you must start broad to learn, but eventually narrow your focus to your strengths. Developers, freelancers, and small business owners can take this same approach — experiment early, then specialize as your reputation and client base grow. Knowing When to Rebrand As side hustles evolve into established businesses, many entrepreneurs ask: Should I rebrand? Kevin's advice is clear — it depends on your audience. "If your new focus serves a completely different audience, rebranding makes sense. But if there's overlap, changing your name or logo might cost you valuable recognition." One of the key branding basics is understanding brand equity — the value built over time through consistent visuals, messaging, and reputation. A name people know is worth protecting. The Four Branding Basics Every Business Needs Kevin shares his firm's framework for defining a complete brand identity — four elements that every company should eventually refine: Visual Identity – your logo, colors, and design style. Positioning – how you serve the market and what makes you different. Identity – your mission, vision, and core values. Messaging – how you communicate and connect with your audience. He notes that new businesses don't need all of these perfected on day one. Start with visual identity and positioning, then evolve the rest as your business matures. "You don't have to get everything perfect on day one. Start simple, then refine as you grow." Avoiding Common Marketing Mistakes When asked about bad marketing, Kevin emphasizes that missteps often come from ignoring your audience. "If you're doing something just to brag and not to provide value," he warns, "you're going to have a bad time." A big part of branding basics is keeping your customers at the center. Test your messages, get outside feedback, and consider how different people might interpret your marketing. Kevin also highlights the danger of having too few perspectives — especially when creating ads or visuals. Diversity in feedback helps prevent tone-deaf campaigns and strengthens connections. Investing in the Right Visual Identity The conversation wraps with a discussion on logos — a key topic in branding basics. While giant brands like Nike or Amazon have iconic designs, Kevin explains that small businesses don't need to overthink it. "A good logo used well adds professionalism," he says. "A bad one gets you confused with everyone else." He recommends investing in a professional brand kit that includes proper logo formats, colors, and fonts. Consistency builds recognition — and recognition builds trust. Branding Basics for Long-Term Success The first part of the interview with Kevin Adelsberger reminds us that branding isn't about fancy design or big budgets. It's about clarity, consistency, and connection. Whether you're launching your first side hustle or re-shaping a growing business, mastering branding basics helps you build a foundation that lasts. A Little Background Kevin Adelsberger is the founder of Adelsberger Marketing, where they create work that grows their clients' businesses, in a culture that values their team and the Jackson, Tennessee, community. After founding in 2014, Kevin went on to be a co-founder of Our Jackson Home and host its podcast from 2015 to 2019.  In 2016, Kevin was recognized as an emerging leader by Leadership Jackson. Then, in 2017, Adelsberger Marketing was named the Emerging Business of the Year by the Jackson Chamber. In 2019, Adelsberger Marketing sold partial ownership to Alexander, Thompson, and Arnold, CPAs. In 2020, Union University recognized Kevin with the Distinguished Achievement in Arts and Media award.  Kevin currently serves on advisory committees for Leadership Tennessee and Jackson State Community College and is a board member for theCO in Jackson, Tennessee.  He also hosts a podcast about business in West Tennessee called 40×45.  Kevin lives in Jackson with his wife and business partner, Renae, and their two children. They are active foster parents and are involved members of First Baptist Church, Jackson. They are also some of the few to cheer on the Minnesota Vikings from below the Mason-Dixon line. #Skol Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Online Communities and Marketing Protecting Your Brand and Avoiding Legal Trouble How to Succeed with Digital Marketing for Small Businesses Getting the word out, promoting your blog Building Better Foundations Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In the first half of our conversation with Adam Malone, founder of The Tenacious Operator, we explore the Power of Trust — how it drives leadership, strengthens teams, and turns potential project failure into growth. From large-scale ERP rollouts to everyday collaboration, Adam shows that the Power of Trust is what truly separates good teams from great ones. Why the Power of Trust Matters Adam begins with a story familiar to many project leaders: a major ERP implementation where everything looked perfect on paper. All dashboards were green, metrics were solid, and executives were confident. Yet almost overnight, the project unraveled. The root cause? A loss of trust. Team members stayed silent about risks. Operations fixed issues without communicating them. The requirements were "complete," but in reality, they were incomplete. When trust fails, clarity disappears — and even the best teams lose momentum. When everyone claims "we're on track," but no one feels safe to speak up, the Power of Trust has already broken down. The Power of Trust in Psychological Safety One of the key insights Adam shares is how psychological safety amplifies the Power of Trust. Proper safety allows people to say, "I'm concerned," or "This might fail," without fear of backlash. He recommends creating space for negative feedback through deliberate questions: "How could this project fail?" "What are we not seeing yet?" Conducting a reverse post-mortem helps uncover weak points before they become disasters. This proactive honesty fuels progress and strengthens the Power of Trust across the entire team. Seeing Work Clearly: The Power of Trust in Transparency Drawing from Toyota's famous Gemba concept — "go to the actual place" — Adam urges teams to physically and mentally visit where value is created. In manufacturing, that's the factory floor. In software, it's the analyst's spreadsheet, the developer's codebase, or the tester's environment. When teams observe each other's real work, they develop empathy and shared understanding. That transparency reinforces the Power of Trust — helping communication thrive where silos once stood. Disagree and Commit: The Power of Trust in Alignment Conflict doesn't destroy trust; it refines it. Adam calls this the disagree and commit principle — a hallmark of mature teams. Healthy disagreement surfaces risks, values, and differing priorities. Once discussed openly, the team commits to the final decision together. No finger-pointing, no second-guessing. This habit embodies the Power of Trust by turning friction into forward motion. The Power of Trust isn't about avoiding conflict — it's about using it to align around shared goals. Guiding Principles: Building Systems Around the Power of Trust Before a project begins, Adam recommends defining guiding principles — the rules of engagement that sustain the Power of Trust. Examples include: "Customer satisfaction must stay above a 4.0 rating." "Average call time can rise by no more than 10 seconds." "All initiatives must deliver ROI within two quarters." When these principles are written down, decisions become consistent and fair. Trust grows because everyone understands how success will be measured and maintained. Leading Through the Power of Trust For leaders, the Trust means striking a balance between empathy and accountability. Adam suggests two types of sponsors for every major initiative: An executive sponsor who clears political obstacles. An operational sponsor who stays close to day-to-day work. Add in a skilled project manager who encourages honest conversation, and the Power of Trust becomes the foundation of performance — not just a talking point. Key Takeaways from Part 1 The Power of Trust transforms fear into feedback and silence into success. Psychological safety isn't soft — it's how great teams stay sharp. Transparency fosters empathy, and empathy in turn builds trust. Healthy conflict strengthens alignment when teams disagree and commit. Guiding principles establish a framework that fosters trust. Connect with Adam Malone If you enjoyed this conversation and want to learn more from Adam, he's always open to sharing insights and connecting with like-minded professionals. LinkedIn: Adam Malone on LinkedIn Website: http://thetenaciousoperator.com/ Visit him on LinkedIn and drop him a message to continue the discussion around leadership, reliability, and building consistent customer experiences. Coming in Part 2: Adam returns to discuss how culture, consistency, and clarity sustain Trust across global teams — and how leaders can turn these lessons into long-term results. Subscribe or follow the Building Better Developers podcast to catch Part 2 with Adam Malone." Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Passive Networking and Building Trust Building Customer Trust in Business: Turning Mistakes into Opportunities Trust But Verify – Avoid Business Assumptions Building Better Foundations – With Bonus Content

Season 26 of the Building Better Developers podcast is all about Building Better Foundations. In Episode 2, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore today's most flexible coding options—no-code, low-code, and a rising trend called vibe coding.   Understanding Modern Coding Options Software creation no longer requires writing every line by hand. Today's coding options range from drag-and-drop builders to AI-generated code, giving teams new ways to move quickly from idea to launch. No-Code Coding Options for Rapid Builds No-code platforms enable you to assemble applications visually using pre-built components and workflows—ideal for creating landing pages, prototypes, or internal dashboards. The trade-offs for this coding option are scalability, security, and platform lock-in. Low-Code Coding Options for Integrated Workflows Low-code combines visual design with the ability to add custom logic where needed. Need email integration or payment processing? This coding option strikes a balance between speed and targeted customization. Even Excel with VBA macros fits here. Vibe Coding: The AI-Driven Coding Option Vibe coding utilizes large-language-model assistants, such as GitHub Copilot and ChatGPT, to generate code from natural language prompts. Treated like a junior developer, this coding option is powerful for prototypes and boilerplate but still requires human review and testing. Choosing the Right Coding Option Match project goals to the best coding option: Fast MVP or marketing site: No-code. Workflows that need integrations: Low-code. Quick prototypes or repetitive tasks: Vibe coding with code reviews. Scaling and Securing Your Coding Options Regardless of which coding option you start with, protect the future: Document architecture and dependencies early. Pin framework and library versions to avoid drift. Run security and performance tests with real data. Budget time for manual reviews—even when AI writes the code. Final Thoughts on Coding Options The expanding menu of coding options gives developers unprecedented flexibility. No-code speeds experiments, low-code balances speed with control, and vibe coding adds AI power. By understanding each approach's strengths and limits, you can launch quickly while building a foundation that lasts. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Developer Career Growth: Breaking Through Stagnation Dealing with Legacy Code: When to Let Go and Start Anew Code Refactoring: Maintaining Clean, Efficient Code The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In launching Season 26 of Building Better Developers, the hosts zero in on what truly sustains developer growth. Building Better Foundations becomes both the theme and the promise: this season will dig into the "why" behind tech trends, sharpen essential habits, and help you stand on solid ground in a shifting landscape.   Why Building Better Foundations Matters Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche acknowledge that in a sea of buzzwords—AI, cloud, low-code, no-code, vibe coding—it's tempting to chase the next shiny tool. But they emphasize: without a foundation of clear reasoning and strong practices, those tools are at risk of collapsing under you. This season's goal is to get past surface hype to the principles that outlast trends. Building Better Foundations through Clarity on Buzzwords Part of the mission is deconstructing the buzz. The hosts plan to peel back layers—not just what new tools do, but whythey matter (or don't). Each episode will dig into a topic's role for developers, for business, and for end users. Below are three key concepts you'll hear about—and understanding them is part of your foundation. Building Better Foundations in Integrating Legacy + Future It's one thing to use new tech in a greenfield project; it's another to graft it onto 20-year-old systems. Rob emphasizes that migrating requires you to understand why the legacy system was built the way it was. Otherwise, you risk picking the wrong tools or design patterns and creating chaos. Building Better Foundations for Scale and Sustainability Michael warns: the fastest launch isn't always the wisest decision. Prototype tools built with low-code, no-code, or AI may serve you well early, but if they can't scale, you're stuck. This season will explore how to choose tools with an eye toward growth, pivot paths, and long-term stability. Building Better Foundations in Developer Mindset Beyond tools and architecture lies mindset. A strong developer habit is thinking intentionally—not chasing every "cool" trend, but grounding decisions in purpose, trade-offs, maintainability, and cost. As Rob says, a true developer is marked by how consistently they bring those fundamentals to every environment. Join the Building Better Foundations Conversation Rob and Michael invite you into the process. Email them at  info@develpreneur.com with your buzzwords, topic ideas, or challenges. This season is as much about dialogue as it is about lessons. "We grow together. We want to make sure you're part of this journey." – Rob Broadhead Key Takeaways for Your Developer Foundation Keyphrase alert: Building Better Foundations is the guiding lens—ask "why" before jumping into any tool. When modernizing legacy systems, start with context and purpose, not just the latest tech. Always think about scale and pivot options—don't let fast prototypes become dead ends. Cultivate mindset over tool obsession. The habits you build are the real foundation. Additional Resources Building And Reinforcing Your Foundational Skills Stories Instead of Buzzwords – Showing What You Know Ramping Up Your Skills Through Broad Experience The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

Season 25 of Building Better Developers with AI wraps up with a conversation that is purely human. For over thirty episodes, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche used AI to revisit past seasons, uncover new talking points, and spark fresh discussions. For the finale they chose a different path, closing the season without digital assistance. This final episode is a straightforward, human-led reflection on what we learned from months of collaboration with AI: the insights gained, the surprises uncovered, and the lessons that will shape future seasons. How the AI-Assisted Podcast Worked Throughout the season, AI served as an idea partner. Using past episode titles and show notes, we asked large-language models to highlight themes, surface overlooked connections, and suggest new topics. The process felt less like automation and more like collaboration—AI proposed possibilities, we debated them, and together we refined each conversation. Key Insight: Treat AI as a partner that expands your thinking, not a shortcut that replaces it. Key Takeaways from our AI-Assisted Podcast Experimentation 1. Clear Prompts Create Better Results A successful AI-assisted podcast depends on clear, focused questions. Breaking large tasks into small, specific prompts produced the most relevant and useful responses. 2. Feedback Loops Improve Quality We quickly learned that saving strong outputs, rejecting weak ones, and resetting context when needed steadily improved the AI's suggestions from one episode to the next. 3. Human Judgment Still Leads AI delivered outlines and surprising cross-episode links, but final editorial control stayed with us. Only the hosts can decide what truly resonates with listeners. Reality Check: AI can offer insight, but only humans can decide what truly matters. Surprises Along the Way Fresh angles on familiar topics. AI revealed links between older episodes that we hadn't noticed before, pointing out recurring themes, complementary ideas, and even follow-up questions we never realized were related. Faster prep with solid structure. By generating draft outlines and well-structured talking points, AI significantly reduced the hours we normally spend preparing each episode, giving us more time to refine our ideas and plan engaging discussions—without sacrificing depth or quality. Occasional misfires. At times the model misread the conversation's context—offering suggestions that sounded plausible but didn't fit the topic—which underscored how essential it is for humans to review, fact-check, and guide every step of the process. These moments proved that an AI-assisted podcast is most valuable as a creative catalyst, not a finished product. Tips for Your Own AI-Assisted Podcast Thinking of running your own season review? Our experience offers a roadmap: Start with transcripts or detailed show notes. Divide tasks into small prompts: summaries, quotes, cross-episode themes. Snapshot strong responses so you can reference or reuse them later. Verify and edit everything. AI drafts are starting points, never final copy. Pro Tip: When a thread drifts off-topic, copy the best context into a fresh chat to regain focus. Why the Finale Was Different While AI enriched nearly every episode this season, the closing conversation remained entirely human. We wanted to pause the technology and reflect on the experience ourselves—to discuss what AI taught us about creativity, context, and collaboration without relying on the very tool we were evaluating. That choice underscored our biggest lesson: AI is a powerful assistant, not a replacement. It can accelerate ideas and surface connections, but the ultimate storytelling voice must stay human. Looking Ahead to Season 26 Season 25 confirmed that AI can be a powerful collaborator for developers and content creators alike. Our AI-assisted podcast delivered richer conversations, new ideas for upcoming seasons, and a faster way to surface timeless lessons from our own archive. But our human-only finale reminds us that judgment, creativity, and vision remain uniquely ours. As we plan Season 26, we'll keep using AI as a brainstorming partner—while ensuring the heart of every episode comes from real conversations and lived experience. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Moving Forward – Releasing Past Mistakes Admitting Defeat – Moving Forward And Accepting The Loss Pivoting: How to Embrace Change and Fuel Your Professional Growth Planning For Growth – Give Your Changes Time To Take Hold The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit their popular discussion "Your Developer Journey – How to Leave a Lasting Legacy." They use AI-generated prompts only as conversation starters, then share their own insights on what a developer legacy truly means today. You'll hear practical advice on writing code that stands the test of time, sharing work through open source, and creating a collaborative culture that thrives long after you've moved on. Whether you're a junior engineer mapping your career path or a seasoned architect shaping teams, this conversation offers a roadmap for making your impact felt—and remembered. Why a Developer Legacy Matters A developer legacy is more than old code—it's the enduring value your work provides. Rob and Michael show how your professional footprint can guide teams long after you've left a project or company. Pro Tip: Adoption is the real metric of legacy. Aim for solutions people use every day. From Quick Fixes to Timeless Impact Move from "just closing tickets" to designing systems that stand the test of time. Readable, maintainable code with clear names and documentation. Robust testing so future developers can extend features confidently. Stable interfaces that prevent painful rewrites. Key Takeaway: Clean, tested code is the cornerstone of a lasting developer legacy. Open Source: A Fast Track to Developer Legacy Michael highlights how open source accelerates your developer legacy: Publish a reusable tool or library. Provide a five-minute "Getting Started" guide. Welcome contributions and feedback to refine your craft. Reminder: A well-documented repository is a résumé that never sleeps. Culture Outlives Code Rob emphasizes mentorship and collaborative culture as essential to any developer legacy: Mentor teammates to spread good practices. Host "mini hackathons" or team debugging sessions. Reward shared learning over individual heroics. Insight: Culture is the invisible code base that scales excellence. Milestones on the Legacy Path Every career has pivotal steps where legacy thinking grows: From first pull requests to defining team standards. From individual contributor to automation architect. From private successes to public tools and templates. Challenge: Ship one reusable script or CI template this week and invite team feedback—your first step toward a visible developer legacy. AI as a Legacy Multiplier AI can accelerate your developer legacy when treated as a partner: Draft tests or refactor with AI assistance. Summarize modules for quick onboarding docs. Share successful prompts as a team "AI playbook." Final Takeaway A developer legacy is deliberate: thoughtful code, shared knowledge, and a culture of mentorship. Start today—document, mentor, and publish—and your impact will outlive any single job. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Moving Forward – Releasing Past Mistakes Admitting Defeat – Moving Forward And Accepting The Loss Pivoting: How to Embrace Change and Fuel Your Professional Growth Planning For Growth – Give Your Changes Time To Take Hold The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

Turning a side hustle into a profitable business is exciting, but sloppy bookkeeping and unclear invoices can drain your energy—and your wallet. In this AI-enhanced revisit, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche share a practical playbook for mastering side hustle finances, from clean record-keeping to professional billing. Why Side Hustle Finances Matter from Day One A side hustle isn't "extra cash"—it's a business. Rob warns that ignoring taxes or mixing personal and business funds can lead to stressful bills or legal trouble. Famous entertainers have learned this the hard way, and so can new entrepreneurs. Treat every paid project like a true business. Without strong side hustle finances, you can't see profits, plan for taxes, or protect yourself legally. Michael adds that registering an LLC shields personal assets but also demands accurate books: "If you can't track your personal budget, learn fast for your business." Building a Side Hustle Finances Foundation The first step in managing side hustle finances is to separate them. Open a dedicated business bank account and credit card to keep personal funds safe and simplify reporting. A credit card provides fraud protection and reward points if you pay it off monthly. Choose tools that fit your stage: Wave (free tier), QuickBooks Self-Employed, FreshBooks, or Google Sheets. Snap photos of receipts and store them digitally so every expense is documented. Pro Tip: Pay off the business credit card monthly. You'll earn rewards and maintain a clean paper trail without carrying debt. Professional Invoicing for Healthy Cash Flow Clear, professional invoices are a cornerstone of good side hustle finances. Include: Business and client contact info Project details and dates Explicit payment terms (Net 30, due on receipt, or milestone-based) Offer multiple payment methods—Stripe, PayPal, ACH—and embed a "Pay Now" button to speed up processing. Rob notes that many companies pay at the last possible moment, so set firm terms and late-fee policies from day one. Challenge: Review your current invoice template. Does it clearly state deadlines and late-fee penalties? Update it before your next project. Managing Cash Flow and Hidden Costs Large deposits can trigger bank holds, especially if you've rebranded or opened a new account. Plan ahead so you can cover payroll or expenses without tapping personal savings. Understand the real cost of every payment method. Credit-card and ACH fees can quietly chip away at profits, so build those numbers into your pricing. Contracts and Boundaries Before starting any project, define what "done" means and capture it in a written agreement. Even a simple contract from LegalZoom can protect your work and ensure you're paid. No contract, no work. Require deposits and pause projects if clients miss payments. Never deliver final source code until the check clears. Key Takeaways for Side Hustle Finances Treat your side hustle like a business from day one. Separate accounts and track every expense with reliable tools. Send professional invoices with firm terms and enforce them. Anticipate bank delays and processor fees to keep cash flowing. Use contracts and deposits to protect your time and income. By following this side hustle finances playbook, you'll not only stay organized and get paid on time—you'll also build the financial habits that turn a part-time gig into a thriving business. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Financial and Accounting Applications (Free and Low Cost) Accounting For The Entrepreneur Estimation Essentials: How to Nail Pricing for Development Projects From Side Hustle to Success The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit an earlier conversation—this time through the lens of AI—to explore how constructive communication in software development creates healthier teams and better code. By analyzing their original "Advocating vs. Arguing" discussion, they uncover new ways to transform conflict into collaboration. "The goal is never to win. The goal is to find the best solution." – Rob Broadhead What Constructive Communication Really Means Rob draws a clear line between two mindsets: Constructive communication invites evidence, empathy, and openness. Defensive arguing focuses on winning, often shutting down valuable ideas. This subtle difference determines whether a team works together to solve problems or gets stuck in endless debates. Why Constructive Communication Improves Software Development Software projects depend on diverse skills and experiences. When team members communicate constructively: Blind spots shrink. Different perspectives uncover hidden issues. Technical debt decreases. Shared understanding prevents costly rework. Client trust grows. Positive dialogue strengthens long-term relationships. Rob highlights how even an outsider's insight—like a .NET developer's idea on a Python project—can spark innovative solutions. Practical Steps to Encourage Constructive Communication Michael offers proven techniques to keep discussions positive and productive: Ask clarifying questions. Instead of "That won't work," try "How do you see that working in this context?" Restate what you heard. Confirm understanding before you respond. Stay curious. Open-ended questions invite deeper exploration. "No is a conversation killer. Replace it with 'Let's consider that.'" – Michael Meloche Spotting When Communication Turns Unproductive Arguments often start subtly. Watch for these warning signs: Absolutes such as "always" or "never." Interrupting or talking over teammates. Ego-driven choices that ignore user needs or project goals. Rob recommends slowing the pace when tempers rise—pause the meeting, schedule a follow-up, or ask everyone to write down their thoughts before reconvening. Agile Practices Support Constructive Communication Rob and Michael agree that Agile's built-in rituals—backlog refinement, iterative feedback, and sprint reviews—naturally encourage constructive communication in software development. If a team frequently argues, it may be skipping these essential steps. Michael also suggests a weekly "water-cooler" session where team members share new ideas or lessons learned. These informal gatherings nurture creativity and trust. Leadership Sets the Tone Managers and leads can reinforce constructive habits by: Checking in with teammates who seem defensive or frustrated. Offering mentoring or personal support when tension surfaces. Encouraging team traditions—from inside jokes to shared hobbies—that build rapport. Rob observes that the best teams always share a unique bond, whether it's dad jokes or a favorite game, which helps them weather stressful moments. Reader Challenge: Practice Constructive Communication This Week Your Mission: Over the next seven days, pick one team interaction—a stand-up, code review, or planning meeting—and intentionally practice constructive communication in software development. Steps to Try: Listen First. Before offering your idea, restate someone else's point to confirm understanding. Replace "No" with Curiosity. When you disagree, ask an open question like "How do you see that working with our current sprint goals?" Log the Outcome. After the meeting, jot down what changed: Did the discussion stay more positive? Did new solutions surface? Share your results with your team—or even comment on the blog post—to inspire others. Challenge yourself: Can you turn at least one potential argument into a moment of advocacy this week? Key Takeaway: Build a Culture of Constructive Communication This episode underscores that constructive communication in software development is more than a soft skill—it's a project-saver. By listening first, asking better questions, and validating every voice, teams can replace conflict with collaboration and move projects forward with confidence. "Choosing one approach together is better than arguing endlessly about the perfect one." – Rob Broadhead Whether you're leading a sprint, conducting a code review, or gathering requirements, focusing on constructive communication ensures that every idea is heard—and the best solutions rise to the top. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Honest Communication Is Critical For Consultants When To Vent (never) as part of Consulting Communication Use Written Communication To Improve Your Standing And Career Communication Noise vs. Content The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit their earlier discussion on "Estimation Essentials" and explore how AI helps sharpen project pricing. The theme is clear: estimation is less about numbers and more about setting expectations. Developers who learn to price with confidence gain credibility, avoid stress, and build long-term client relationships. Why You Must Price With Confidence Estimation impacts far more than budgets. A clear, honest number builds trust and predictability. Vague requirements like "integrate with multiple systems" can't be priced accurately—so instead of guessing, developers must clarify scope. Saying "not enough detail to price this yet" protects both sides from disappointment. Honest estimates strengthen trust. Don't guess—clarify. Common Pitfalls When You Don't Price With Confidence The hosts highlight mistakes that derail projects: Underestimating to win a contract, then burning out. Ignoring hidden costs such as meetings, testing, and documentation. Forgetting risk buffers, leaving no room for the unexpected. Leaning on gut instinct rather than repeatable methods. By failing to price with confidence, developers risk missed deadlines, blown budgets, and damaged reputations. Frameworks to Help You Price With Confidence Rob and Michael recommend proven approaches: Bottom-up estimation – Break work into small tasks. Top-down estimation – Use data from past projects. Three-point estimation – Balance optimistic, pessimistic, and likely outcomes. Risk-first sequencing – Attack uncertain features first. These frameworks bring structure, reduce surprises, and give clients realistic options. Choosing Models That Let You Price With Confidence Pricing isn't just about numbers—it's about risk allocation. Time & Materials (T&M) – Risk stays with the client, who pays for actual work. Fixed Price – Risk shifts to the developer; scope must be crystal clear. Beware hybrid models like "T&M with caps," which push risk onto developers without fair compensation. The key is aligning incentives so both sides win. MVP Thinking: Another Way to Price With Confidence Defining a minimum viable product (MVP) early protects the project when scope changes or budgets tighten. By locking in must-have features at the start, you can deliver value even if time or resources run short. This approach ensures clients get results and developers maintain credibility. Practical Steps to Price With Confidence Callout: Break tasks down, add a 20–30% buffer, and communicate assumptions. Follow these steps on your next project: Clarify requirements first – No assumptions left unspoken. Break into small tasks – Accurate estimates come from detail. Add buffers – Protect against risk and scope creep. Track actuals vs. estimates – Learn and refine over time. Explain assumptions – Clients trust numbers when they know the "why." Challenge: Practice Pricing With Confidence Review your last three estimates. Where did you miss hidden costs like testing or meetings? On your next project, add a 25% buffer to that category and track whether accuracy improves. Small tweaks create more reliable pricing habits. Closing Thoughts The path to better client relationships isn't perfect numbers—it's predictable delivery. Developers who price with confidence clarify scope, tackle risks early, and communicate openly. The result? Trust, repeat business, and less stress. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Software Estimation: Improving Productivity, Quality, and Expectations Setting Realistic Expectations In Development A Project Management and Pricing Guide for Success Pricing Strategies – The Value Of Your Product Or Service The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

As the Building Better Developers with AI season nears its close, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit a topic every team faces but few get right: code consistency. In this episode, they explore how shared conventions, smart tooling, and simple documentation transform messy projects into scalable, high-quality systems. The Hidden Cost of Inconsistency Picture opening a project where every file tells a different story: mixed naming styles, conflicting error handling, and folders arranged on a whim. Before you can fix a bug or add a feature, you're lost in formatting chaos. Callout: Inconsistency wastes time, complicates onboarding, and hides defects—long before code reaches production. Rob notes that AI can now help. Define your preferred patterns—naming, structure, logging—and tools like ChatGPT can propose refactors that enforce uniformity. What Code Consistency Looks Like Consistency isn't about stifling creativity—it's about shared, predictable choices that reduce cognitive load. The essentials include: Naming & Structure – Clear, conventional names; sensible modules/packages. File Organization – Standard project layouts (Maven for Java, src/app folders in web projects). Comments & Docs – Concise explanations paired with readable code. Error Handling & Logging – A single, unified approach across the app. Michael highlights that without these agreements, containerized deployments break easily and new developers struggle to contribute. Why Teams Benefit from Code Consistency Rob compares a consistent codebase to a band playing in sync: individual instruments can vary, but the music holds together. That's the impact of code consistency. Benefits include: Communication: Developers spend less time deciphering quirks. Maintainability: Predictable structure accelerates debugging and onboarding. Quality: Automated tools enforce standards and prevent regressions. Professionalism: Consistent code signals engineering maturity, not just coding skill. Tools That Do the Heavy Lifting Michael insists that every team should enforce linters, formatters, and pre-commit hooks. Without them, a small change can appear as a full-file rewrite, confusing reviews and merges. Start with community standards like PEP8, Google Java Style, or eslint/prettier. Add checks to CI/CD pipelines. Document expectations in CONTRIBUTING.md or a team wiki. Pro Tip: One rule set, many editors. Don't let each IDE invent its own defaults. Debunking the Myths of Code Consistency "Standards kill creativity." True creativity lies in solving problems, not inventing new brace styles. "It slows us down." Alignment may take effort initially, but it saves hours of confusion later. "Every project is different." Standards should evolve as living guidelines, not rigid laws. Michael adds that consistent libraries allow teams to reuse components across projects instead of duplicating them. How to Put Standards Into Practice Here's a simple rollout path: Choose a baseline such as PEP8 or Google Style. Automate formatting and linting. Add pre-commit hooks to stop violations early. Focus reviews on consistency, not just correctness. Document standards and revisit them quarterly. Encourage adoption. Praise clean diffs and fast merges. Your Developer Challenge Here's your action step: Pick one project and audit three files. How many naming styles, error-handling patterns, or file structures do you find? Then: Apply a linter or formatter. Document two conventions (naming + logging). Share them with your team. Small steps toward code consistency will save your team time, money, and frustration down the road. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Coding Standards – A Personal Approach Look More Professional With Personal Coding Standards One-Offs, Side Projects, and Veering From Standards Updating Developer Tools: Keeping Your Tools Sharp and Efficient The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit a classic topic: The Power of Clickable Demos in the Software Development Lifecycle. This time, they reframe it through the lens of demo-driven development, exploring how lightweight prototypes align teams, validate ideas, and reduce costly missteps. What is Demo-Driven Development? Demo-driven development utilizes interactive prototypes early in the lifecycle to demonstrate how an application might function before coding begins. These demos link wireframes or screens together into a simple, clickable flow. Low fidelity: Basic wireframes to test flow and logic. High fidelity: Polished UI mockups that look like production. Best practice: Begin low fidelity and add detail only as needed. "Demo-driven development gives stakeholders something to touch and test—without weeks of coding." How Interactive Demo-Driven Development Improves Alignment Instead of static diagrams, teams can walk clients through interactive experiences that make requirements tangible. This approach helps uncover gaps, clarify assumptions, and prevent misunderstandings. Even a rough demo can save hours of rework by sparking conversations that written requirements alone often miss. Benefits for Developers, Managers, and Clients Prototypes provide value across roles: Developers: Spot design flaws early and estimate with more confidence. Product managers and designers: Validate ideas quickly and secure buy-in. Clients and end users: Interact with something realistic, making feedback far easier. "Many times, a demo exposes what was never written in requirements—but was always assumed." Common Pitfalls to Avoid As Michael points out, demos can sometimes create false direction. Stakeholders may perceive the prototype as production-ready, prompting teams to release features that are rushed or incomplete. To prevent this: Emphasize that prototypes are exploratory. Focus on solving the problem, not polish. Avoid over-engineering features that may never be built. Using Prototypes for A/B Testing One strength of this approach is the ability to test multiple designs quickly. By creating different variations of a flow, teams can gather real feedback and compare preferences. For instance, rotating two demo versions on a website gives instant insight into which design resonates most, ensuring decisions are based on evidence rather than guesswork. Tools and Workflow for Demo-Driven Development Rob and Michael highlight practical ways to make demos effective: Start with wireframes – concentrate on flow, not design. Choose the right tools – Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch, or basic HTML/CSS. Test before presenting – nothing derails a meeting faster than broken links. Guide discussions – keep clients from getting stuck on minor details, such as colors. Keep it lean – focus on essentials that prove the concept. "Solve the problem first. Make it pretty later." Why This Approach Still Matters Today Revisiting this topic highlights the continued value of demo-driven development. It accelerates feedback, ensures alignment, and keeps projects focused on real user needs before heavy development begins. When used wisely, it reduces risk, minimizes wasted effort, and helps teams deliver software that both functions effectively and delights users. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Building Out Your Application From a Demo How to Create an Effective Clickable Demo Successful Presentation Tips for Developers: Effective Demo Strategies Transform Your Projects: The Ultimate Guide to Effective User Stories The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this season of Building Better Developers with AI, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit a past topic: 'Transform Your Projects: The Ultimate Guide to Effective User Stories.' This episode offers a fresh perspective on how teams can achieve greater success by writing better user stories. The hosts initially tackled this subject in an earlier season, but they return to it because the challenge remains timeless: poorly written user stories continue to derail software projects. This time, they dive deeper into lessons learned, customer-centric approaches, and frameworks that make user stories truly work. Why Writing Better User Stories Still Matters Rob opens with a familiar frustration: sitting in sprint planning and realizing the user stories don't make sense. Vague requirements create confusion, rework, and wasted effort. A user story is not a specification—it's a promise for a conversation that builds shared understanding. By writing better user stories, teams maintain focus on outcomes, rather than implementation. They deliver features that users actually need, instead of technical solutions that fall short. The Philosophy of Writing Better User Stories User stories should always: Stay customer-centric by focusing on what the user wants, not the technical details. Break down work into small, manageable chunks that improve agility and estimation. Emphasize outcomes over implementation, avoiding the trap of data tables and CSS classes too early. Rob illustrates this with the ATM example: "As a customer, I want to withdraw cash so that I can access money in my account." This keeps the story grounded in the user's experience. The Anatomy of Writing Better User Stories At the core of writing better user stories is a simple formula that makes requirements clear and human: As a [user role] I want [goal] So that [reason] This framework ensures that every story is tied directly to a user's perspective, their needs, and the value they'll receive. However, strong stories extend beyond this sentence structure. Rob and Michael highlight two key frameworks that add depth and clarity: The Three C's – Card, Conversation, and Confirmation, which explain how stories spark dialogue and define "done." The INVEST Model – Independent, Negotiable, Valuable, Estimable, Small, and Testable- is a checklist that helps teams evaluate whether a story is ready to move forward. Finally, one important reminder: each story should only have one meaning. If a story can be interpreted in multiple ways—or contains "if/then" scenarios—it should be split into smaller, more focused stories. This keeps the backlog clean and avoids confusion later in development. The Three C's of Writing Better User Stories 1. Card The card represents the user story itself. Traditionally, teams would write stories on index cards. Today, tools like Jira, Trello, or Asana take their place. The key is that the card is just a placeholder for a conversation, not the entire requirement. It captures the essence of the story but leaves room for discussion. 2. Conversation The conversation is where the real value happens. Developers, product owners, and stakeholders discuss the story, ask clarifying questions, and uncover details that weren't written down. These discussions ensure that the team shares a common understanding of the user's needs. Without this step, the story risks being too vague or misinterpreted. 3. Confirmation The confirmation defines how the team knows the story is complete. This typically takes the form of acceptance criteria or test cases. Confirmation transforms a story from an idea into a verifiable piece of functionality. It answers the critical question: What does "done" look like? Card captures the idea. Conversation builds the understanding. Confirmation proves the work is complete. The INVEST Model for Writing Better User Stories The INVEST model is a simple but powerful checklist that helps ensure user stories are clear, practical, and actionable. Each letter represents a quality that a strong user story should have. Independent A good user story should stand on its own. That means it can be developed, tested, and delivered without being blocked by another story. Independence reduces dependencies and keeps projects moving smoothly. Negotiable User stories are not contracts carved in stone—they're open to discussion. Teams should be able to negotiate details, scope, and implementation during conversations. This flexibility encourages collaboration and prevents rigid requirements that may not fit real-world needs. Valuable If a story doesn't provide business or user value, it doesn't belong in the backlog. Every story should clearly tie back to outcomes that matter for the end-user or the organization. This keeps the team focused on delivering impact, not just features. Estimable A story should be clear enough that the team can estimate the effort to complete it. If it's too vague or too large, it can't be accurately sized. Estimable stories make sprint planning realistic and help track progress more effectively. Small Stories should be small enough to complete within a single iteration. Large stories, sometimes called "epics," should be broken down into smaller, more manageable pieces. Small stories are easier to understand, estimate, and test. Testable Finally, a user story must be testable. The team needs to know how to verify it's "done." This often takes the form of acceptance criteria or test cases, ensuring the functionality can be validated from the user's perspective. The INVEST model keeps stories clear, focused, and actionable. If a story fails any of these tests, refine it before moving forward. Lessons From the Trenches: Writing Better User Stories in Practice Michael highlights a recurring issue: customers often don't fully understand their "why." They may use outdated paper trails, redundant processes, or even misuse tools they already own. Sometimes developers must reverse-engineer requirements by observing workflows, asking why at each step, and uncovering hidden pain points. Rob adds that trust plays a huge role—stakeholders may initially follow the "official" process, but only reveal their real practices after rapport is established. Avoiding Common Pitfalls Even with good intentions, stories can fall short when they are: Too vague or incomplete. Disconnected from actual business processes. Written without acceptance criteria. Michael stresses that implied requirements are dangerous. Developers should always strive for clearly defined acceptance criteria that leave no room for ambiguity or uncertainty. Practical Tips for Writing Better User Stories The hosts wrap up with actionable guidance for developers: Speak up – Don't code vague tickets without asking questions. Push for the "so that" – The business value matters most. Write acceptance criteria – Define what "done" means. Break down big stories – Smaller, testable stories are easier to validate. Stay user-focused – Keep technical details in subtasks, not in the story. Example: Bad: Add a contact form. Good: As a potential customer, I want to fill out a contact form with my name, email, and message, so that I can get in touch with the company about their services. This richer story sparks the right questions: Which fields are required? Should multiple contact methods be supported? These clarifications lead to solutions that match real needs. Final Thoughts By revisiting this subject, Rob and Michael remind us that user stories are more than backlog items—they are bridges between developers and customers. Writing better user stories keeps teams aligned, prevents rework, and ensures projects deliver meaningful results. Implied requirements are not good requirements. Defined requirements are good requirements. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Updating Developer Tools: Keeping Your Tools Sharp and Efficient Building Your Personal Code Repository Your Code Repository and Ownership of Source – Consulting Tips Using a Document Repository To Become a Better Developer The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit one of their most memorable past discussions: "Unpacking 'Psychopaths' Scenarios and Tough Coding Challenges." That earlier conversation explored the "opposite of the happy path"—those frustrating moments where unclear requirements, unrealistic expectations, or hidden bugs make coding feel nearly impossible. Now, with the help of AI prompts and fresh anecdotes, the hosts take a lighthearted but practical look at how developers can survive tough coding challenges and even grow stronger through them. Revisiting Past Tough Coding Challenges The original "psychopath" metaphor described the bizarre, unpredictable situations developers encounter—like half-baked requirements or strange user paths no one expected. In this revisit, Rob and Michael highlight how tough coding challenges remain timeless. Unclear specs still lead to messy solutions and wasted effort. Requirements written on napkins, "urgent" tickets with no prioritization, or unrealistic interview questions all qualify as classic tough coding challenges that force developers to adapt. Common Tough Coding Challenges Developers Face The hosts share a humorous "starter pack" of scenarios every developer will recognize: Legacy code packed with seven levels of nested if statements. Interview questions that ask you to "write a compiler on a whiteboard." A vague spec that says only: "Make it user-friendly." A "small change" that balloons into a complete rewrite. Though exaggerated, these challenges highlight a real issue: projects succeed when expectations are realistic and communication is consistent. Developer War Stories Rob and Michael also revisit their personal developer war stories: The Semicolon Bug – Days lost to a missing character when linters weren't in place. The "Everything is Urgent" Boss – Prioritization chaos that left the team paralyzed. Merge Conflicts – Overwritten code when developers skipped repositories and unit tests. Teams that ignore coding standards and repositories will keep reliving the same tough coding challenges.c Coping Strategies for Tough Coding Challenges Surviving the madness takes both discipline and humor. The hosts share practical coping strategies, such as: Rubber Duck Debugging – Explaining the problem out loud often sparks insights. Snacks and Caffeine – Reward yourself for solving a challenge. Take Breaks – Walking away can reveal solutions faster than brute force coding. Michael also warns against the "ship it and patch later" mentality, pointing to unstable game launches and OS rollouts as cautionary tales. How Tough Coding Challenges Build Superpowers The conversation closes on a positive note: tough coding challenges don't just test developers, they strengthen them. Debugging Ninjas spot subtle errors instantly. Documentation Detectives can decipher legacy systems with ease. Interview Survivors gain confidence from handling curveball puzzles. Michael encourages developers to document their solutions and share them with the community. Not only does this help others, but it also creates a reference point for your future self when the same challenge reappears. Final Takeaway Revisiting the original "Psychopaths" episode with a fresh perspective shows that while technology evolves, tough coding challenges never go away. What changes is how developers respond. With clear requirements, strong processes, and healthy coping strategies, chaos can be transformed into growth—and even a little humor along the way. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources User Stories Unveiled: A Developer's Guide to Capturing the Full Narrative Misdirection Anti-Pattern: Solving The Wrong Problem Software Development Requirements: Staying True to Specifications The Importance of Properly Defining Requirements The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit an earlier conversation: "Building a Strong Developer Toolkit – Enhancing Skills and Productivity." This time, they explore how AI and modern practices shape the discussion. The takeaway: enhancing developer productivity isn't just about tools—it's about habits, problem-solving, and continuous growth. 🎉 Thank You for 900 Episodes! This episode marks a huge milestone — our 900th episode of Building Better Developers. We couldn't have done it without our amazing listeners, readers, and community. Your support keeps us inspired to continue sharing lessons, stories, and strategies that help developers grow every day. Here's to the next 100 episodes — and beyond! Why Enhancing Developer Productivity Starts with the Toolkit Just like a carpenter can't build without tools, developers need more than an editor or framework. Version control, debugging methods, and documentation are the foundation for enhancing developer productivity. Core Technical Tools Every Developer Needs The must-have items for modern development include: Version Control: Git (via GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket) has replaced outdated tools like SVN. IDEs and Editors: Debugging capabilities are critical—choose an IDE that supports it well. Package Managers: npm, pip, and Composer improve consistency. Debugging Tools and Linters: Postman, ESLint, PyLint, and others ensure high-quality code. Pro Tip: Debugging isn't optional—it's essential for enhancing developer productivity. Code Quality and Security for Enhancing Developer Productivity Michael emphasizes that productivity means fewer mistakes and less rework. Tools like SonarQ enforce coding standards and catch issues early, while OWASP checks protect against vulnerabilities. Both are vital for enhancing developer productivity in regulated environments. Problem-Solving and Mindset Shifts Rob draws the line between coders and developers: coders write code, developers solve problems. Shifting into a developer mindset means: Practicing time management with Pomodoro or task batching. Writing clear documentation and commit messages for future clarity. Using unit tests and user stories to improve both communication and quality. Soft Skills that Enhance Developer Productivity People skills strengthen technical skills: Emotional Intelligence: Gauge team morale to avoid burnout. Negotiating Requirements: Say "no" politely but clearly to prevent scope creep. Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Teaching others reinforces your own skills while raising team performance. Continuous Learning as the Ultimate Productivity Tool The best developers treat learning as ongoing practice: Stay current with blogs, podcasts, and online courses. Use AI tools like GitHub Copilot or ChatGPT as accelerators, not crutches. Build personal projects to explore new skills and create reusable solutions. Challenge: Start a small personal project this month to put new skills into practice—it's one of the fastest paths to enhancing developer productivity. Final Thoughts Revisiting the developer toolkit shows that while tools evolve, fundamentals like debugging, testing, and documentation remain essential. What's changed is the addition of soft skills, AI tools, and intentional learning—the real drivers of productivity today. Ultimately, enhancing developer productivity means solving problems effectively, working smarter with teams, and continuously refining your skills. Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting, there's always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let's continue exploring the exciting world of software development. Additional Resources Updating Developer Tools: Keeping Your Tools Sharp and Efficient Building Your Personal Code Repository Your Code Repository and Ownership of Source – Consulting Tips Using a Document Repository To Become a Better Developer The Developer Journey Videos – With Bonus Content Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content