Episode 6 - Foundation of software, APIs

In today's episode, we take a slight turn from talking about the cultural aspects of tech companies and get a little more technical. We scratch the surface on a core concept in programming called APIs. We discuss what it is, how we use them, some tips for building APIs, and throw in a few funny stories.

This is our first take on a more technical topic. We try to walk the fine line of teaching all of you about the topic without over whelming you. I hope you all enjoy the episode!

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Markers:

 3:00 - What is an API   9:00 - Is it taught in school?   15:14 - It's like dating   16:22 - How it can be taught in school?   17:35 - Our first encounter with "API"   22:13 - Explain Like I'm 5 - ELI5 APIs   24:29 - How you interact with APIs non web   26:40 - HTTP   34:12 - Common mistakes we had building APIs   35:58 - Healthchecks - Shout out datadog   42:15 - Naming is important   47:55 - Scammers 

External References:

What is an API? https://blog.hubspot.com/blog/tabid/6307/bid/8341/a-marketer-s-guide-to-apis.aspx

Is an app not working and curious if your favorite app is down: https://www.isitdownrightnow.com/

More advanced:

CORS: https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/HTTP/CORS

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