Modern Web

Backend Abstractions, Serverless Patterns, and Why It’s Okay to Start Learning with Frameworks

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In this episode of the Modern Web Podcast, Rob Ocel, Danny Thompson, Adam Rackis, and Brandon Mathis discuss the role of abstractions in software development. They explore frontend tools like React and SolidJS, backend abstractions like serverless platforms, and the importance of understanding patterns and learning through mistakes. The group also highlights emerging trends for 2025, including opportunities in platform plugins and developer marketplaces.

Key Points for the Episode:

  • The Role of Abstractions in Development: The panel discusses the benefits and challenges of abstractions in software development, emphasizing the importance of understanding underlying systems to avoid over-reliance on tools like React hooks and serverless platforms.
  • Learning Through Experimentation: Personal experiences with tools like Advent of Code, exploring new languages like Swift and Rust, and experimenting with new frameworks like SolidJS highlight the importance of hands-on learning and stepping outside comfort zones.
  • Platform Opportunities: A growing interest in building apps and plugins on established platforms like Stripe, Zoom, and Chrome Extensions showcases untapped opportunities for developers to create impactful solutions and monetize their skills.

    • Chapters
    0:00 - The Potential of Plugins and Platforms
    0:42 - Welcome to the Modern Web Podcast
    0:47 - Introducing the Hosts and Guests
    1:19 - Holiday Projects and Side Gigs
    1:31 - Danny’s Speedrun of a New Platform
    2:07 - Adam’s Holiday Reading List
    3:38 - Brandon’s Advent of Code Challenge in Swift and Rust
    5:01 - Learning New Programming Languages Through Challenges
    6:52 - Discussion on Abstractions in Software Development
    7:10 - The Balance Between Abstractions and Understanding the Basics
    8:56 - Learning Through Experience: The Importance of Stepping on Rakes
    9:46 - React’s Role in Frontend Development and Its Critics
    10:39 - The Evolution of Frontend and Backend Abstractions
    12:09 - The Impact of Serverless and Cloud Platforms
    13:31 - Misuse of Abstractions and Overcomplicated Code
    14:27 - The Common Pitfalls of React Hooks Misuse
    15:29 - Overuse of `useEffect` and Its Performance Implications
    16:41 - Learning from Industry Experts: Insights from Ben Lesh
    17:53 - The Evolution of the Web from Static Documents to Interactive Applications
    19:04 - The Role of Abstractions in Backend Development and Serverless Adoption
    21:06 - Advice for Developers on Understanding Patterns and Abstractions
    22:21 - Sponsor Message: This Dot Labs
    22:27 - Looking Ahead to 2025: Technologies and Trends
    22:43 - Excitement Around SolidJS and Signals-Based Frameworks
    23:29 - The Growing Ecosystem Around SolidJS and TanStack Router
    24:48 - Insights from a Conversation with Ryan Carniato
    25:19 - Interest in TanStack Start and React 19 Features
    26:09 - Danny Learning Spanish and Coding Challenges
    27:16 - Exploring New Platforms for Side Projects and Monetization
    27:55 - The Untapped Potential in Plugin and App Store Ecosystems
    29:01 - Case Study: Monetization through Small Chrome and Office Extensions
    30:09 - Growth of Developer Marketplaces (Stripe, Slack, Shopify, Zoom)
    31:06 - The Challenge of Getting Projects in Front of Users
    32:03 - Opportunities in Game Modding and Twitch Extensions
    32:32 - Closing Thoughts and Future Podcast Episodes
    32:45 - Sponsor Message and Where to Find the Podcast Online
    Follow the crew on Twitter and Linkedin:
    Rob Twitter: https://x.com/robocell
    Rob Linkedin:   / robocel  
    Danny Twitter: https://x.com/DThompsonDev
    Danny Linkedin:   / dthompsondev  
    Adam Twitter: https://x.com/AdamRackis
    Adam Linkedin:   / adam-rackis-5b655a8  
    Brandon Twitter: https://x.com/BrandonMathis
    Brandon Linkedin:   / mathisbrandon  

    Sponsored by This Dot: thisdot.co

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    Modern WebBy Modern Web
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