892: The History of Syntax

This episode explores the history and evolution of the Syntax podcast, a collaborative effort by Wes and Scott. Against the backdrop of their individual online tutorial creation in 2015, a shared "React for Beginners" course led to their initial connection and subsequent mastermind group. More significantly, this collaboration fostered a strong rapport, culminating in the podcast's inception in 2017. Initially conceived as a departure from dry tech podcasts, their early success stemmed from a blend of technical expertise and engaging personalities, attracting a sizable audience and sponsors like Delicious Brains and FreshBooks. As the discussion pivoted to growth, they introduced shorter "hasty treat" episodes to accommodate more sponsors and topics. The acquisition by Sentry in 2023 marked a significant turning point, allowing for team expansion, a transition to video content, and the creation of a merchandise store. Ultimately, this narrative highlights the journey of a successful tech podcast, emphasizing the importance of strong co-hosting dynamics, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships in achieving sustainable growth.