Healthy Developer

You already know working in tech while staying in a romantic relationship is hard if you spend a lot of time on the computer. But there are other even more dangerous aspects of a tech job that can risk losing your romantic partner if you aren't careful.

In this episode, I share lessons I've learned while married for 25 years to the same woman - and working in tech at the same time. It wasn't easy and I almost lost her a few times. But eventually I learned how to both be a successful programmer - and stay married. I hope this episode helps you avoid divorce or breakup if you're trying to balance a healthy relationship with a romantic partner with progression in your tech career.

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Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(0:00) Introduction (2:15) 1. 5 Ways Tech Sabotages Relationships (2:45) 1.1 Long and Unpredictable Work Hours (6:14) 1.2 Communication Breakdown (7:58) 1.3 Financial Stress and Lifestyle Inflation (11:01) 1.4 Lack of Shared Interests & Experiences (14:55) 2. 3 Ways to Keep a Relationship Healthy Working in Tech (14:13) 2.1 Schedule & Prioritize Quality Time (17:56) 2.2 Open Communication of Stress & Expectations (22:35) 2.3 Establish Boundaries With Work and Home Life

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If you've never been an addict, you may be surprised to know many programmers (and other people in tech job roles) struggle with drug use. Nobody working in tech is a stranger to stress and pressure! But sometimes the ways we cope are unhealthy.

If you're currently using, I've been honest and transparent with you - I've been there. I was a marijuana addict for 25 years, and often used it with the rationale that it helped me manage the stress of my job. However, I learned the hard way that using drugs to cope with work creates more problems than it solves.

In this episode, I'd like to help you understand WHY drug use is so prevalent in the tech industry. I'll also share the consequences to your career that arise from ongoing use of drugs. And finally, I'll offer some healthier ways to cope with the inherent problems that programming and tech related jobs introduce - rather than turning to drugs as a coping mechanism.

I hope this helps you have some compassion for your coworkers who may be trapped in addiction, do what you can to improve the conditions we all work in, and if you're currently struggling - get help so you can flourish in your career!

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(0:00) Introduction (1:12) Three Stories of Drug Use in Tech (5:32) 1. Why Do Programmers Use Drugs? (5:36) 1.1 Attempt To Inspire Creativity (7:27) 1.2 High Stress and Pressure (11:09) 1.3 Isolation and Lack of Social Support (13:36) 1.4 Normalizing Culture (14:57) 1.5 Burnout and Mental Disorders (17:01) 2. How Drugs Make Work Harder (17:08) 2.1 Impaired Cognitive Function (19:23) 2.2 Damage Mental and Physical Health (21:50) 2.3 Legal and Ethical Consequences (24:21) 3.1 Supportive Community (26:53) 3.2 Adopt Prayer or Mindfulness (30:23) 3.3 Better Nutrition and Exercise (34:11) Episode Groove

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The popular thing to do when faced with a toxic software project - is to complain until you get out. But a healthier alternative, is to use it as an opportunity to get stronger in your tech career.

In this episode I share some things I learned by reflecting back on my career through the lens of the book of Proverbs from the Christian Bible. It showed me that I actually have more opportunities to grow than I thought when I deal with difficult software projects.

I hope that even if you don't believe in the Bible, it maybe causes you to step back and look at your suffering through a different lens. And if you do believe, it encourages you to put your faith to action whether you're a programmer, product manager, QA tester, in DevOps - or really any role on a software project!

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(0:00) Introduction (1:07) 5 Ways To Grow From a Toxic Project (3:11) 1. Gain Resilience Through Adversity (7:40) 2. Enhance Problem Solving Skills (12:20) 3. Improve Collaboration Skills (18:39) 4. Grow Empathy and Leadership Skills (22:56) 5. Increase Appreciation for Positive Jobs (26:20) A Story of a Toxic Hire (30:00) Episode Groove

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If you're a programmer tired of the corporate grind, and thinking about starting a software company - watch out. I tried this twice and failed, but the third time went much better. Here are some practical tips to avoid pitfalls as a software engineer if you want to start a software company - and be successful!

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(0:00) Introduction (1:05) 8 Mistakes Programmers Make Starting Companies (1:19) 1. Picking a Product That's Fun To Build (3:54) 2. Choosing a Viral Business Model (6:26) 3. Overengineering (9:00) 4. Having a Fixed Mindset (12:59) 5. Spend Too Much Time Building The Product (15:14) 6. Poor Financial Management (18:27) 7. Failing To Build Networks of Help (21:18) 8. Low Self-Confidence

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The software industry may be messed up, but I need to be straight with you. You're resisting help! If you really want your job and life to get better, and to achieve better things in your software career - the complaining needs to stop. You need to stop resisting the things you already know you should do - and DO them. You can't solve all these problems alone!

In this episode, I'm going to share some harsh truths with you about your responsibility for why your career may suck. I don't share these to criticize you, but to help you confront the seriousness of your situation - and show you how you are truly more empowered to change it than you may realize.

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(4:55) 5 Ways We Stay Miserable (6:34) 1 Tribalism (10:22) 2 Avoiding Responsibility (13:17) 3 Giving In To Fear (18:08) 4 Escapism (21:21) 5 Pride

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If you're about to get a new tech job, sometimes the red flags are obvious. But what happens when you want the gig anyway? The temptation to take a job when the pay is high, there's prestige, or it's a promotion are strong.

In this episode I share some things I've learned about spotting these red flags, and resisting the temptations that come with the allure of tech company offers. I hope they help you take a more healthy job, and not get sucked into working for a company that drains your soul.

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(1:16) A Story of Deceit (6:32) 1. Red Flags of a Toxic Tech Company (6:52) 1.1 Vague Answers About Work/Life Balance (8:18) 1.2 Long Hours Are a Bade of Honor (10:02) 1.3 Suspiciously High Salary of Title (11:34) 2. Why Do We Ignore Red Flags? (11:40) 2.1 Justifying Stress With Money (13:27) 2.2 "It's a Stepping Stone" (15:54) 2.3 Need to "Prove Our Worth" (18:03) 3. How Can You Overcome The Temptation? (18:12) 3.1 Make a Relational Impact List (20:13) 3.2 Ask Brave Questions (22:51) 3.3 Avoid Companies That Resist Transparency (24:22) 3.4 Listen to Your Gut! (26:20) 3.5 Write a Catastrophic Story (28:31) Episode Groove

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If you're tired to the deadlines, pressure, and unrealistic expectations - it may be time to take programming for money into your own hands. In this episode, I share 3 ways you can escape the corporate grind and make money in tech yourself.

Being a solopreneur isn't easy, but it's very rewarding if you're willing to learn things like digital marketing. I weigh 5 aspects of considering being a solo IT consultant, starting a solo software product company, or selling what you know about technology through online courses in this episode.

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(0:34) 1. 3 Ways To Escape The Corporate Grind (0:48) 1.1 Solo Consulting / Freelancing (3:23) 1.2 Build a Software Product (5:49) 1.3 Sell Education Online (10:01) 2. 5 Aspects of Each Method of Escape (10:12) 2.1 Effort vs. Income (15:20) 2.2 Marketing Effort (21:42) 2.3 Dependence on Others (27:19) 2.4 Transition Cost (34:53) 2.5 Learning Required

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Programming starts out like any other career - then one day you wake up addicted. In this episode, I share big problems with programming's impact on your work/life balance, and offer solutions. As a software developer, it's easy to get caught up in the endless cycle of coding and problem-solving, often at the expense of personal time and well-being. I discuss how this imbalance can affect your life and provide insights on how to manage it effectively.

I also share some personal experiences and tips on maintaining a healthy balance between your programming career and your personal life. The video is not just about coding; it's about living a fulfilling life while pursuing your passion for programming.

Remember, programming is an exciting and rewarding career, but it's important to balance it with other aspects of your life. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content on navigating the challenges of a software development career. Your support means a lot!

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(01:45) 1 Signs Programming Is Taking Over Your Life (02:07) 1.1 Only Digital Free Time (03:42) 1.2 Stimulate and Chill Cycle (06:12) 1.3 No Quality Time with Friends or Family (07:58) 1.4 No Non-Technical Hobbies (10:50) 1.5 Living Paycheck to Paycheck (12:52) 2 Life Changes To Get Time Back from Programming (12:59) 2.1 Divorce Yourself from Software Industry Values (15:52) 2.2 Schedule Social Activity After Work (18:43) 2.3 Get Control Over Your Finances (21:56) 2.4 Explore Other Tech Job Roles (24:50) 2.5 Have a Career Exit Plan (29:10) Episode Groove

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Feeling swamped in your tech job? You're not alone! In this episode, I dive into the heart of what makes our programming world so overwhelming and, more importantly, how you can navigate it with ease.

In this episode, I'm not just talking at you; I'm talking with you. We'll explore the common pitfalls that lead to feeling overwhelmed in tech jobs and share practical, actionable strategies to help you manage your workload and stress levels. Whether you're a seasoned programmer or just starting out, this video is packed with insights tailored just for you.

Programming can be a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs, and it's totally normal to feel overwhelmed at times. But don't worry, I've got your back! We'll look at how to prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and create a work environment that supports your well-being and productivity.

Remember, being overwhelmed doesn't mean you're failing – it's a sign that you're pushing your boundaries and growing. So, let's turn that overwhelm into empowerment together!

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(01:41) How To Stop Being Overwhelmed By Your Tech Job (02:31) 1.1 Relentless Pace of Projects (03:17) 1.2 Pressure To Continuously Learn (04:32) 1.3 Glorification of Hustle Culture (05:47) 2 Signs of Being Overwhelmed (06:01) 2.1 Constant Fatigue / Lack of Motivation (08:36) 2.2 Brain Fog (09:41) 2.3 Feeling Inadequate Despite Achievements (10:36) 2.4 Anger at Requests for Help (12:13) 2.5 "Too Busy" for Social Activities (13:08) 3 How To Reduce Overwhelm (13:21) 3.1 Prioritize Your Tasks (15:38) 3.2 Learn To Say No (17:20) 3.3 Practice Mindfulness or Prayer (19:34) 3.4 Exercise and Get More Sleep (21:51) 3.5 Social Media Fast

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Let's get real about AI and how it impacts programming. There's a lot of propaganda and fear being thrown around related to artificial intelligence (especially in software development and engineering) - so let's cut through the noise together.

I made this video for all you software developers, engineers, and programmers out there who want to get a real perspective on AI's role in our field. Whether you're deep into your software career or just starting out, I've got some insights that you'll find valuable.

Join my Patreon: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/patreon

Learn about one-on-one career coaching with me: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/coaching

TechRolepedia, a wiki about the top 25 roles in tech: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/techroles

The Thriving Technologist career guide: https://thrivingtechnologist.com/guide

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

Chapter markers / timelinks:

(0:00) Introduction (4:01) 1. Who Stands To Gain From AI Hype? (4:10) 1.1 The Media (5:08) 1.2 Employers (6:04) 1.3 Startups (7:27) 1.4 Tech Training Companies (8:24) 2 A Rational AI Approach for Programmers (8:30) 2.1 Become an AI Generalist (10:00) 2.2 Spot The Sensationalism (11:52) 2.3 You Are The Compiler (14:38) 2.4 Use AI To Diversify Your Skills (18:11) 2.5 Build a Non-Technical Industry Product (20:22) 2.6 Teach Non-Technical Companies AI

Visit me at thrivingtechnologist.com