Build and Learn

Feb 17 2025 58 ep. 40 mins 6
Build and Learn Podcast artwork

A podcast about software development and developing ourselves as software engineers. Hosted by CJ Avilla and Colin Loretz.

  Technology  Education
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Flavors of DevRel: tummeling, docs, SDKs, meetings, and conferences

Feb 17 2025 44 mins  
In this episode, we reconnect for season 3, after a short hiatus to chat about life in Developer Relations (DevRel) at bigger companies, the avalanche of meetings that come with onboarding, the rollercoaster of prepping for big events like GDC, and the ongoing quest to create top-tier documentation and SDKs. We swap tips for maximizing AI tools, reflect on building the DevRel muscl

Travel Tech/Gear and Learning Game Dev

Dec 30 2024 46 mins  
This week we talk about travel from a tech/gear lens and learning game development. CJ is back from Italy apple pay, currency conversion, splitwise, train, google maps, translation apps, tour headsetsColin's food tip: Topjaw on youtubeAiralo for esimTrain travel in europe is amazing!One-bag travel, having an extra smaller bagPack HackerColin learning UnityFlappy bird tutorialCJ is

Wordpress Drama and Discord Activities

Nov 25 2024 45 mins  
In this episode, we discuss the WordPress vs. WP Engine drama. We also chat about Discord Activities, the new way to embed games and experiences directly in Discord. Resourceshttps://replicate.com/ https://mikecann.co.uk/posts/battletabs-global-launch-on-discord-activitieshttps://a16z.com/discord-activities-social-gaming/Tech Crunch Wordpress Drama Explained https://techcrunch.com/

To AI Assist or not to AI Assist?

Nov 11 2024 43 mins  
CJ and Colin chat about AI tools and coding environments. Pros and cons, daily workflows, and challenges of various AI-driven coding tools like VS Code, Cursor, and Copilot.We also talk about the broader implications of AI in content generation, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, and emphasize maintaining a human touch in communication to avoid hollow, AI-generated content.-

Personal Knowledge Management (Second Brain)

Oct 28 2024 40 mins  
In this episode, you'll learn about the PARA Method for organizing your notes and tasks, emphasizing the importance of balancing craftsmanship with delivering real customer value. Discover insights from Pieter Levels' success with straightforward tech stacks and recurring revenue from multiple startups. The discussion covers the power of building in public, optimizing productivity

Our Daily Drivers: Hardware and Software Edition

Oct 14 2024 36 mins  
In this episode, Colin and CJ discuss their audio and video setups, ideal microphones, cameras, and software for content creation. They dive into the specifics of the equipment they use and recommend budget-friendly options for those just getting started. Additionally, they touch upon some useful applications and tools that streamline their workflows, and discuss their experience w

Rails 20th Anniversary, Writing Culture

Sep 23 2024 42 mins  
In this episode, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Ruby on Rails, reflecting on its impact and vibrant community. We share Rails origin stories from the late 2000s and early 2010s. You'll hear about different companies' reading and writing cultures, including practices like decision documents, meeting notes, and internal newsletters.You'll hear updates on current projects, with

DevRelCon, Red Eyes, and Enums

Sep 09 2024 44 mins  
We discuss visiting NYC, DevRelCon, red-eye flights, and why enums are terrible.Some of the bits and bobs mentioned in this episode:- DevRelCon - Chef's Table (S2E1 Grant Achatz) / Alinea- Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon- CJ enumerating lessons about enums

Two Years of Build & Learn

Aug 27 2024 43 mins  
We're celebrating our 50th episode and two years of podcasting. In this milestone episode, we reflect on what has kept us consistent, our laid-back approach to podcasting, and give a shoutout to you! We also explore how social media affects consumer behavior and share tips for managing digital consumption and mental health.You'll also hear about our latest projects, including optim

Enum Types, Coworking Software, and more Atomic Habits

Aug 12 2024 41 mins  
Producer's note: This episode should have gone out as episode 48 ahead of Webhooks! This is our missing episode. Join us next episode for episode 50!Colin has a fitness update: working on the lungs, breathing and stress in general. CJ is digging into enums and converting them to models at Craftwork. More to come on that topic soon. Colin continues to avoid building Coworking Softwa