What if I had to break into tech today… with no degree, no connections, and a completely unrelated job?

In this episode, I sit down with entrepreneur and self-taught developer Jeremy “Smitty” to map out exactly how we’d do it if we were starting from zero in 2026.

We walk step-by-step through a realistic path from beginner to hireable — not theory, not hype, but the practical moves that actually work in today’s market.

We cover:

• How to choose what to learn (without wasting years)

• The fastest way to build real, job-ready skills

• How to escape tutorial hell for good

• When you’re actually ready to apply for jobs

• How to create experience before anyone hires you

• The smart way to network when you don’t know anyone in tech

• Why AI isn’t the career killer people think it is

• The mindset shift that separates people who make it from those who quit

If you’ve ever thought:

“I want a tech career, but I don’t know where to start”

or

“I’m stuck in a job that has nothing to do with coding”

This episode gives you a clear, actionable roadmap.

You don’t need to be special.

You don’t need a CS degree.

You just need the right plan — and the consistency to follow it.

Shameless Plugs:

1. Become an AI engineer. In 45 days, you'll learn the specific skills and technologies to transition from full stack to AI. We use project-based-learning and the teach-back method to accelerate your learning. Apply here. 

If you're a CTO or engineering manager, this is the program your team needs BEFORE you drop 200K+ on an AI engineer. Reply "AI" to learn more about how we can make your roadmap a reality.

2. Become a hireable software engineer in 2026. Follow a proven system to go from 0 to HIRED with 1 on 1 mentorship and project-based-learning. Take the self-assessment test here to see if you're ready to join.